DECEMBER 2016 PROUDLY SUPPORTING THE CHILDRENS HOSPITAL CHARITY
COCO // TREVOR NELSON // BOY ON A DOLPHIN // MARTIN SIMPSON // ALBUMS OF THE YEAR // XMAS GIFT GUIDE + MORE INSIDE
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DECEMBER 2016
COVER STORY
SCROOGES Phil Turner (MD) phil@exposedmagazine.co.uk Nick Hallam (Sales Director) nick@exposedmagazine.co.uk Sarah Koriba (Accounts) accounts@exposedmagazine.co.uk
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HAPPY LITTLE ELVES Joe Food (Editor) joe@exposedmagazine.co.uk Rachel Heward (Editor) rachel@exposedmagazine.co.uk
EVIDENTLY JOHN COOPER CLARKE
FEATURES
‘A poem is never finished, merely abandoned.’ The Bard of Salford steps forward as this month’s cover star to let us in on his passion for crooning, thoughts on today’s digital age and the connection between music and poetry.
26: MARTIN SIMPSON: IN SESSION
This month, it’s the turn of globetrotting blues and folk artist Martin Simpson to receive the Exposed In Session treatment. We grabbed a natter with the gifted guitarist before the film started rolling.
38: A TIME FOR GIVING
Get your peepers round some of the stuff on offer from Steel City independents in our Christmas Gift Guide.
65: THE NEETS AHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
From bars and clubs to theatre and markets – here’s what’s gwarning in Sheff over the festive period.
75: FULL NELSON
The legendary soul aficionado talks us through his life in music.
77: ALBUMS OF THE YEAR
With a veritable smorgasbord of brilliant releases to pick from, choosing our favourite albums of 2016 was a toughie. Nevertheless, we persevered and managed to compile a diverse list of belters.
REGULARS 10 UPFRONT 21 VS 49 FASHION 57 FOOD 65 THINGS TO DO 71 COMEDY 73 NIGHTLIFE 77 MUSIC 99 LGBT 100 GAMING 103 FILM 107 CULTURE
PLUS...
THE GRINCH Marc Barker (Design) marc@exposedmagazine.co.uk SANTA’S LITTLE HELPERS Kieran Wade, Mark Perkins, Ellie Grace, Ali Bianchi, Kerre Chen, Heather Paterson, Martin Smith, Tom GreenFuller, Stevie Birchall, John Morgan, Kevin Wells, Nageena Rehman, Leo Burrell, Daniel Collins, Georgia Smith THE BUSINESS STUFF Exposed is published monthly by Blind Mice Media Ltd, Unit S8 and S9, Globe Works, Penistone Road, Sheffield S6 3AE. The views contained herein are not necessarily those of Blind Mice Media Ltd and while every effort is made to ensure information throughout Exposed is correct, changes prior to distribution may take place which can affect the accuracy of copy, therefore Blind Mice Media Ltd cannot take responsibility for contributors’ views or specific entertainment listings.
COCO, BOY ON A DOLPHIN, MUSIC REVIEWS + MORE!
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THROUGH THE LENS
christmas market From the Sleigh Bar to Santa’s Grotto via every confectionery, cheese and craft stall on the way; this month Exposed photo blogger Ellie Grace gets festive on Fargate.
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Horoscopes
How to survive going home for Christmas Peace and goodwill to all, yeah? Avoid politics – at all costs.
Your Daily Mail reading grandad is one glass of sherry away from bringing the house down with his views on Brexit. Clear your throat and quickly change the subject. ‘Yes, grandad. It’s quite the mess we’ve found ourselves in. Any-hoo, shall we see if the Queen’s speech has started yet? Buy him: The Grand Tour Season 1 on DVD. This way you won’t have to go through the gruelling process of explaining Amazon Prime.
Dealing with Uncle Gobby
Simply say: “Sure Unc, I can see why you think Christmas is a big capitalist wankfest – but if I get you another can of lager can we start practising our inside voice?” Buy him: A six-pack of Tenent’s
Boring in-laws
Ensure you sit them with someone equally boring. “Hi Auntie Doreen. Have you met my sister’s partner, Dean? Yeah, he works in HR too. You two must have plenty to talk about.” *Sprint out of the room*
Naff presents
Receiving a multitude of Lynx gift sets is just as much a part of Christmas tradition as hanging the stockings. If the presents are rubbish, it’s likely your fault for not phoning home enough. Just saying.
The television will be crap. Deal with it.
Force a laugh every now and again during Elf, try humming along with your nan to The Sound of Music and endeavour not to swear at the tele during the Queen’s speech. Oh yeah, and let dad watch the football on Boxing Day. He’s had nothing but socks and migraines to contend with for the last couple of days.
SAGITTARIUS: Nov 22 - Dec 21
You publish an open letter to Santa Claus asking for a more renewable form of punishment than a lump of coal this year. “How on earth are we ever going to get China to play ball if the world’s biggest toy distributor refuses to move with the times and accept the environmental impacts of its practices?” you ask the pollutionmongering scumbag. Christmas Day finally arrives and you rush downstairs to find a mini wind turbine in your stocking and a lovey lump of biomass under the tree. Winner. CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan 19 A time for giving and receiving… the annual Christmas do at La Chambre never disappoints. AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18 This month you dab so hard your kidneys fall out. PISCES Feb 19 - Mar 20 The best way to spread Christmas cheer is by oozing your noodle for all to hear. ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 19 The stars are at a loss to explain how, despite your immense stupidity, you manage to see out another year on
this planet. TAURUS April 20 - May 20 When asked where you see yourself in five years’ time, you will laugh awkwardly, burst into tears, scream “JUST LEAVE ME ALONE, OKAY?!” before making an exit via the nearest window. GEMINI May 21 - June 20 Geminis are natural sceptics, questioning dubious phenomena such as alien life, the supernatural and electricity. CANCER June 21 - July 22 Fate has a funny way of balancing things out. Prepare to lose the other leg this week.
LEO July 23 - Aug 22 You’ll never be Beyonce. Get over it. VIRGO Aug 23 - Sep 22 Judging by your browser history, you’re never getting off the naughty list. LIBRA Sep 23 - Oct 22 Libra is on annual leave this month. Assume you’ll either get hit by a train or fall in love. SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21 The stars tell me that Uranus is looking mighty fine this month. I repeat: ‘MIGHTY FINE’.
LET THE GREAT FOODINI CARESS YOU INTO THE ETHER. FONDLE OUR FUTURES, FOODINI - FONDLE OUR FUTURES! UHN. For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 13
LOCAL HERO
Tramlines announce new way to buy tickets To make life a bit easier in the run-up to Tramlines 2017, you will now be able purchase tickets on a monthly payment plan for the first time. The festival have given festivalgoers the option to split the cost and pay in monthly instalments of £16, so you’re not left too out of pocket after booking your place at Sheffield’s biggest annual bash. There’ll be no hidden costs or booking fees attached to purchasing tickets this way; it’s exactly the same as paying for the ticket upfront, just staggered over three months instead of being expected all at once. Head to tramlines.org.uk for full info on ticket prices and payment plans.
“The US election results are like Eurovision, but scarier.” “Donald Trump looks like an old person and a toddler all at once.” “I’m literally expecting Jeremy Beadle to jump out any moment and scream, ‘AH! Got ya, dickheads!’” “Not everyone gets mugged in Sheffield.” “I don’t think you got enough hugs as a child.”
john burkhill
Most of you will have either heard of, or at least seen, Sheffield legend John Burkhill (AKA The Man with the Pram), who has dedicated his life to fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support. We caught up with John to find out more about his achievements and his recently released autobiography, ‘Distance No Object: Sheffield’s Man with the Pram’. Can you tell us what made you start fundraising for Macmillan? Since I was a kid I have spent many years fundraising for various charities, but I decided to raise funds for Macmillan full-time in 2006, shortly after the death of my wife and daughter. I wanted to devote my life to helping others. So far you have managed to raise over £500,000 for Macmillan, an incredible achievement. Could you tell us about the types of fundraising you have taken on to reach this figure? I spend the majority of my time running marathons in Sheffield, Leeds, Nottingham and London. I also make it my priority to do The Great North Run every year. I’ve competed in over 975 races so far, including half marathons – and always while wearing the green wig! You’ll also find me walking around Sheffield, greeting and thanking the public for their support. A big part of your recent fundraising
is through the sales of your new autobiography, with all proceeds going straight to Macmillan. Tell us a bit about the book. I actually started writing it myself three years ago when my close friend told me it would be a very inspiring read. At first I felt a little reluctant because I am not a writer, but I took it to the Chief Editor of The Star, Martin Smith, who told me that we needed to get this in print, and that’s when I took it to Macmillan. And now here we are, selling my autobiography to the public and all for a great cause. What are your goals for the future? My main goal was to raise a million pounds, and now I am well over the halfway mark. I feel incredibly proud, not just of myself but of Sheffield. I want to carry on for as long as I can. Macmillan is making a huge difference helping those with such a devastating illness, which I have seen first-hand, so I will not stop.
John’s autobiography is available to buy online at Amazon or in stores at Waterstones, Blades Superstore, Owls Superstore, The Moor Market and Sheffield Star. RRP £9.99 - all proceeds going to Macmillan Charity. www.macmillan.org.uk 14 l For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
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Merry Christmas
To all our Customers
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SHOT OF THE MONTH
Christmas Bells
As the year draws to a close it’s time to name and shame those who tried their damnedest to ruin 2016 for all of us. DONALD TRUMP Award: President Bell
2016 shall be forever remembered as the year that Donald J. Trump, following an unpleasant campaign dominated by xenophobia, misogyny and lies, won an election to become the most powerful politician in the world. *Shudder*
HILARY CLINTON
Award: Failed at becoming President Bell
It will also go down as the year Democrats put forward a candidate so out of touch with the American electorate that Trump seemed, for 61 million Americans, the better option. People were demanding an antiestablishment choice, and Hilary, with her close ties to Wall Street and (allegedly) dodgy email server, simply failed to inspire.
SAM ALLARDYCE
Award: Mike Bassett Bell
Ah, big Sam. Big Sam Allardyce. Big ol’ daftas-a-brush Samuel Allardyce. Many English football fans thought that – finally – they had found their saviour: a delightfully oldschool, 4-4-2 loving, set-piece devotee and man motivator. But, mere weeks after signing a £3m contract to become the new England boss, Big Sam pressed the self-destruct button – getting caught in a curry house courting a £400,000 payment from fake businessmen to bend third-party ownership rules. That is just so Big Sam.
MARTIN SHKRELI Award: Wu Tang Bell
BRINGING IT HOME
Marcus Maschwitz captures Bring Me The Horizon frontman Ollie Sykes serenading the crowd during their memorable homecoming show. 16 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
The serial douchebag and millionaire has trolled music lovers worlwide, outbidding fan groups to purchase the only version of Wu Tang Clan’s album for $2 million dollars. He has since threatened to either destroy the record or hide it, just for LOLs.
Good for your Elf On December 16th workplaces, schools and local businesses are encouraged to don their finest stripy leggings and dig out a pair of pointy ears, all in aid of The Children’s Hospital Charity. TCHC are offering you the chance to be involved in a city-wide dressing-up day, with the dresser-uppers giving a £1 donation, and the non-dresser-uppers
paying a £2 fine (AKA The Humbug Box). Whether it’s a bake sale, movie marathon or Christmas carol singalong, whatever you do, use the hashtag #NationalElfService to share your antics. All proceeds go towards helping patients unable to leave the hospital over Christmas have a space to play and be together with friends and family.
ON TWITTER: @adam_moloneey I’ve just witnessed a grown man cry because his girlfriend wouldn’t go with him to Sports Direct #onlyinsheff @LesBeLit Overheard on the bus. Girls talking about Christmas. “It’s the season of depression, misery and bankruptcy!” @dylanmfp ‘Ah bruh look at this gay little dog with his coat’ – overheard in Sheffield @Andyrii260583 Only in Sheffield would somebody refer to an escalator as “does tha remember that moving staircase that wa ere” #loveSheffield @al_sowden ‘You are four snapchats away from cock’ #goodoldsheffield @sheffprestige We all have that one friend:
For more information head to www.tchc.org.uk.
INSTAGRAMMER OF THE MONTH: The Instagram feed of @ cartridge88 captures everything from the city’s natural beauty to its spiky charm, through the eyes of a keen dog walker and cyclist.
Painting the town... French painter, muralist and screen-printer Florence Blanchard recently completed this stunning mural on the side of Shakespeares pub, Gilbratar Street, as part of project FEATURE WALLS; an outdoor gallery of contemporary murals in the heart of the city curated by Bradbury & Blanchard. Keep your eye out for the map of all of the feature wall locations, soon to be available in city centre shops and to download from bandbgallery.com. Follow the hashtag #FEATUREWALLSSHF to discover more! For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 17
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Voluntary Action Sheffield hits 90!
MOONKO Since its online launch in 2011, independent store MoonKo has cemented its place in Sheffield as the finest vendor of all things beautiful and creative. The store supports local brands and designers at its Division Street store, which opened back in 2013.
What’s in store?
Plenty! And every product on offer glimmers with colour and individuality. From bespoke jewellery to decorative prints, the shop also houses charming ceramics, greeting cards and furniture. The whole place is full of little treasures that will leave you wondering why you ever found buying Christmas gifts a chore.
Keep an eye out for...
All of MoonKo’s stock is from independent artists, with a real emphasis on supporting local and national designers. Highlights of 2016’s Sheffield designers include Sarah Abbot, whose cutesy prints, pins and postcards fit MoonKo’s aesthetic like a glove. Also worth checking out are Thebearsthebears, who design t-shirts and prints, inspired by bears, as you might have guessed. What’s more, all the products on offer are handmade and of the highest quality, using eco-friendly materials.
Winners!
All this attention to detail has not gone unnoticed, with Dragon’s Den mogul Theo Paphitis awarding the store with his Small Business Sunday Accolade back
in 2013, and local hero Jessica Ennis-Hill presenting Deborah Moon, MoonKo’s founder, with an award for helping young creatives get ahead in the industry.
All for a good cause
As well as supporting up-and-coming independent creatives, MoonKo has always had a noble attitude towards charity, Deborah explains: “We are passionate about giving back, and one of our visions is to support and sponsor children out of poverty and those affected by sex trafficking and HIV. We also work with some amazing charities such as ONCA Gallery based in Brighton and Ghost of Gone Birds.”
Local organisation Voluntary Action Sheffield reaches the grand old age of 90 this year, coming very close to a century of charitable work in the Steel City. To celebrate this milestone, VAS is holding their first awards event to acknowledge the incredible work of the local voluntary and community sector organisations they support and the huge impact they have on the city. For each of the nine categories there are two nominees, as well as a ‘high commendation’ for any other charities that deserve recognition. Among those shortlisted from the city are Cavendish Cancer Care, Sheffield Environment Weeks and Roundabout. The awards ceremony took place at Cutler’s Hall on November 24 (just after this issue went to print). Head to www.vas.org.uk to find out who won what!
Style it out
MoonKo Interior Styling Studio has now launched after a successful show at Country Living UK, offering interior design for offices, homes, restaurants, events and weddings, including one-off installations, all using some of the best design industry experts in botanics, furniture, fabrics and ceramics. Being a stockist and a retail shop, MoonKo has a unique insight into branding.
With your Independent Sheffield card:
10% off soft furnishings.
Find them at:
89 Division Street, Sheffield S1 4GE. Their opening times are Monday-Saturday 11am-6pm and Sunday 11am-5pm.
Want to know more about Sheffield Independents? Head to independent-sheffield. co.uk and don’t forget to pick up your membership card for exclusive deals and offers from local businesses of every shape and size.
Mission Christmas With the madness involved in last-minute present shopping, the hassle of getting the whole family in one place, and debating whether or not cauliflower is, in fact, traditional, it’s easy to forget that some families are not so lucky. Mission Christmas, South Yorkshire’s largest gift appeal, supported over 21,400 children last year and are pushing to raise even more in 2016. Their aim is to ensure that every single child living in poverty (that’s a staggering third of the UK’s child population) will wake up to a Christmas present this year. On the 9th of December, make sure you don your favourite Christmas jumper to raise money for this great cause. For more info download the fundraising pack from www. hallamfm.co.uk.
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EXPOSED
HOT YOGA SHEFFIELD
When asked by Hot Yoga Sheffield to spend a cold and wet morning in a toasty incense-filled room, Exposed resident fitness fanatic Kelsie leapt at the chance to take part in this month’s VS. But will her downward dog be up to scratch? And can she handle the heat? Namaste-tuned for the results… (Terrible. Sorry). Words: Rachel Heward
As someone who actually makes use of a gym membership and regularly defies gravity at pole fitness classes, we knew Kelsie would be our best bet to make up the numbers. Lagging a mighty nine points behind challengers, we were determined not to make it into double figures, and Kelsie was adamant she would (quite literally) bend over backwards for a win. Hot Yoga is, unsurprisingly, a yoga class in a very hot room. With temps between 30-40°C, the class is designed to make you sweat hard, releasing toxins and providing great cardiovascular benefits. It also allows you to be more flexible and less susceptible to injury as your muscles are warmer than usual. The latter is a promising thought as we arrive at the intimate studio in Crookesmoor and meet our challenger, teacher Rosie O’Neill, who has been practising yoga for over 15 years. She’s trained as a pilates instructor with HFE and has Yoga Alliance UK 200 hours accreditation. Knows her stuff, then. With introductions over and the studio nicely heated up, we embark upon the first challenge: who can hold a plank position for the longest. To make sure Rosie doesn’t have too much of an advantage, she does the plank with her feet elevated on a dharma wheel, which makes the whole thing a hell of a lot trickier. The timer starts and it’s not long For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 21
HOT YOGA SHEFFIELD
until the beads of sweat begin to break out. The position involves keeping your entire body as straight as possible, which strengthens the spine and tones abs and arms. It looks easy, but it’s difficult to hold for more than a couple of minutes, as Kelsie demonstrates by crashing down on the mat as the timer strikes 1.15. Not quite the flying start we were hoping for. Round two is all about balance, as our contenders strike a tree pose (standing on one foot with hands in prayer position). For this one, Rosie has her eyes closed, causing her to hop about incessantly whilst Kelsie’s steely focus on a spot in front of her results in statuesque composure. It takes a mere 19 seconds for Rosie to hop her way into the mirrored wall and lose her footing. 1-1! For the third round, our yogis practise sun salutations; a sequence which involves baby back bends, forward folds, lunges, downward dogs, cobras and all sorts of
other animal-like positions. It’s a fastpaced process so to make things difficult for the expert we dressed her up in a hoody, gloves and woolly hat. This doesn’t seem to deter her though, and after three sequences both Kelsie and Rosie seem as energised as ever. Cue the tie-breaker. Not strictly a yogabased challenge, but one which will produce a clear winner. We get each
contestant to chug a bottle of HYS’s homemade Mystery Juice. Comprising of apple, lemon, fennel, celery and pineapple, it has multiple health benefits following a tough workout – though perhaps not when downed in one. Despite a considerable amount of Mystery Juice dribbling down Kelsie’s chin and dripping onto the yoga mat, she manages to clinch it by a second. Winners!
VERDICT:
It’s a bit of a stretch, but Kelsie manages to keep her cool and secure the win for Exposed! Don’t forget to keep your eye out for HYS’s second venue opening early next year on Edgedale Road, which will have more studio space and include a vegan café. Head to hotyogasheffield.co.uk for more details. The scores so far: EXPOSED: 28 CHALLENGERS: 36 DRAWS: 3
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MARTIN SIMPSON Words: Aaron Jackson
Even in a city with as diverse and successful a music scene as Sheffield, Martin Simpson stands out. A globe-trotting musician who has made Sheffield home base, after 45 years he is still producing music of astonishing passion and power. Widely acknowledged as one of the world’s finest guitarists, a true virtuoso of the instrument, but an equally capable multi-instrumentalist, he’s a writer of subtle and singular vision as well as being an acclaimed and eclectic interpreter of the material of others. Throw in that Martin is also an in-demand collaborator from the folk scene to Hollywood, tours relentlessly, has been nominated for 27 BBC Folk awards in 15 years (walking off with nine of them), and remains as personable and approachable as ever and... well, it’s pretty impressive. With a landmark Firth Hall homecoming gig coming up on 13th December, and a new album on the cards, we sat down with Martin to catch up with what he’s been doing and where he’s going next. How did the Global Soundtracks gig at the University of Sheffield come about? They approached me asking if I’d like to do something. We were already looking for something to do in Sheffield, and it fell into place from there. So, it’s a very special gig. It’s the last gig of the year, I feel like I’m about to present a lot of new material to an
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audience that I haven’t really played for this year. I’m also going to use instruments that I’ve never used on stage before. Usually, if I’m doing a gig, I turn up with two acoustic guitars and a banjo. The things I’ve been working on have led me into different areas and towards more obscure instrumentation. That’s hard to pull together onstage just in practical terms of lugging kit around. But with it being the last gig of the year, in Sheffield, with Andy Bell doing the sound and new material in process, everything has come together as a real chance to showcase what I’ve been up to – a chance to get on stage and really have at it! You cover an incredibly eclectic range of material, from broadside ballads to Bruce Springsteen. How do you feel what you do fits into the idea of a Global Soundtrack? I think that it’s all music. I started playing when I was twelve. I almost immediately went down to the local folk club, but I already had a lot of American influence from my brother’s rock ‘n’ roll and jazz and blues records. I was into traditional Scots and Irish music too, and going to the club exposed me to English music – which has some of the most exquisite melodies you’ll ever find. But even if you went from people like big Joe Williams playing really extraordinary African-American Delta blues ▶
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all the way through to an unaccompanied Scots or Irish singers it still felt like the same music to me. So, when people started saying ‘you need to make up your mind which you’re going to play’, I’d say ‘No. I don’t’ – because to me, it’s all part of the same continuum. What is it? It’s music. What does it have in common? People. And I still think that today. You’re currently working on a soundtrack. How did that come about? I was on holiday in August and my agent called and said ‘Sorry to bother you, but there’s a lady in Hollywood who’s trying to reach you. She’d like you to work on a film score.’ I said ‘Well, I think you can bother me with that!’ It turns out that the director of the film had one of the albums I’d done when I was in the States, really loved it, and wanted to use one of the tracks in the movie before realising that they could get me to do the whole thing. It’s been a great experience, the bouncing back and forth as part of a team with the director and the music supervisor. Funny too, at times. You know, you get a note that says ‘For this scene, I hear sad.’ So you write something sad, and hand it over, and then the note comes back ‘Too sad’! But it pushes you into areas that you might not otherwise go into – and that’s a positive thing. Will it feed into the next album? And it seems to have been a while since Vagrant Stanzas (2013), so when can we expect it? Well, to answer the first question first, it will, but it’s a question of to what degree you let it feed in. That in itself is an interesting question, because people
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like to have input into what I do. For example, my friend Richard Hawley has said that my next record should be all of my own songs. It’s an interesting perspective, but it’s not going to happen because that’s not really who I am. Yes, there will be songs on there that are mine, but interpreting and arranging other people’s work are equally important to me, not just traditional songs but contemporary ones too. That’s part of who I am too. So, the writing and arranging takes time, because you want it to be good. I also really value my relationship with Topic Records. They’re the oldest independent record company in the world. They really care about what goes out on their label and they don’t put out shit records, so I’m going to make sure that I don’t give them one! And why would you? My goal, every time I make a record, is to make the best one I’ve ever made. It should be every musician’s goal. Looking around, I’m not sure it is. But it’s certainly mine. I read a comment on social media that described you as the hardest working man in folk music. Your solo work, your collaborations, your soundtrack work, your workshops, and your teaching... will 2017 be more of the same? Well, part of me would like to do two big tours a year and spend the rest of the time writing and recording and doing more film work. But that’s in the realms of wishfulness – and there’s nothing wrong with that. In the meantime, I tend not to turn down gigs. If someone wants me to go and play, I go and play!
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Legendary punk-poet Dr John Cooper Clarke and Hugh Cornwell of the Stranglers released their covers album, This Time It’s Personal, back in October of this year. The duo are now about to embark on a UK tour, hitting Sheffield’s Leadmill on December 8th. We caught up with John during his busy rehearsal schedule to talk crooning, poetry and the digital age… WORDS: LEO BURRELL
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Do you have any past experiences at The Leadmill? Yeah I played there many, many, many, many years ago with Nico, from the Velvet Underground. We can’t wait to hear the singing voice you’ve been hiding away all these years. What made you take up crooning? [Laughs] I hope you’re not disappointed! It’s a good thing to do late in life, pick up crooning. Everybody in the world thinks they can sing. Let’s leave it up to the public to decide. I’ve already read one bad review, my first one ever actually, in Mojo. It wasn’t that bad, they just said that I’m no Pavarotti! I’ll take that, to be honest. I’m punching above of my weight with Pavarotti, both metaphorically and literally… How different does it feel performing in song, and is it the melodic aspect that makes it, to quote the album title, “personal” this time? Oh no, it’s more of a punchline, you know, “This time… it’s PERSONAL!” I’ll came up with that title because it shows in equal parts affection and animosity. It’s inspired by movie trailers, that whole Jack Regan “The Sweeney” feel. It’s chummy and aggressive, the kind of thing people say all the time. It’s good to have a title that’s an everyday phrase, it’s free advertising! It strikes a chord with people. On the record there is a real emphasis on 50/60s singers and that post-war freedom of expression. Yes, late 50s/solo performers, mostly preBeatles. You won’t remember this, being a young man in this world, but back then it was all about teen heartthrobs: American pop singers like Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Elvis and everyone after that. In 1956,
when Elvis left for the army, a plethora of singers came about: Elvis Costello, Bobby Rydell, Frankie Avalon, Ricky Nelson, Dion & the Belmonts. They were all trying to fill into that unfillable gap left by Elvis. It was pre-rock ‘n’ roll, such as the song ‘Jezebel’, which is on the record. What is it about that period that you felt warranted revisiting? This is the music Hugh and I listened to at a similar age, the music we heard on radio growing up. Not everyone had a record player, so radio was much more important then and we wanted to capture that. In the 70s and 80s you were often the poet amongst musicians, warming up for bands like the Buzzcocks and the Fall… Well that’s not quite right, it wasn’t that I was a warm-up act as such. With the punk thing, it was all in the news, and my kind of poetry wasn’t doing well on the publishing side of things, so I developed a stage act. I figured if they can’t take it in the libraries, I’ll take it to the people of the cabarets, music halls and theatres! I became a nightclub performer when punk was first getting going. Being a punk in Manchester, it was Howard Devoto (of the Buzzcocks) who encouraged me to do so. He saw that I looked the part; I had the short spiky hair, mohair suits, that whole moddy look. It was unusual at that time to not have long hair, so I attracted the attention of the punks, which there weren’t many of back then. We shared the same production values, I suppose. Was sticking to spoken word something you did out of choice? Or was it just easier to avoid the difficulties of being in a punk band? I’m a total control freak, not a team player. When it’s only me in control, it’s either my
32 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
credit or blame to take! I don’t mean to put down the guys in the band [with Hugh], the swell guys they are, but I’m used to doing it my way, to quote Dorothy Squires/Sinatra/Elvis. How has it been, working with a band? Is there something comforting about not walking out on stage alone? Oh, there’s nothing comfortable about this! I’ll be very upset if it turns out that I’m no good. I can sing in the studio, but I’ve not done it on stage – I’m shitting myself! But, you know, it’s good to get out of your comfort zone. People always ask me after my shows, ‘did you enjoy yourself?’ I say to them ‘No! Show business is never enjoyable, and if I wanted to enjoy it I’d be the one buying a ticket!’ Saying that, singing is one of the great pleasures in my life. I’ve never been into instrumental music but I’ve always been into singers, in all kinds of music. Who other than Hugh is in the band? There’s Windsor McGilvray on drums, Patrick Hughes on bass, Phil Andrews on keys, and of course Hugh’s on guitar. Hugh and Phil found the rest of the band; I don’t know that many musicians. Your solo shows often cross the boundary between performance poetry and standup comedy… Yeah, I find jokes, being about delivery and timing, very much occupy the same space as poetry. Is this something that will continue now that you’re doing shows with a band? These shows with H and the guys, they’ve got nothing to do with my normal act, I see it as something totally different. I mean, jokes don’t impinge in any way, and I’m a friendly guy so I’ll still be saying good evening and good night but I won’t be
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telling jokes in the same way, no. If you’re there for laughs and poems, wait a few months and I’ll be doing that stuff again. There’s no meeting between the two, but hopefully it’ll be entertaining in its own way. I want to give the singing my full attention, all of my devotion. A song is a thing in its entirety, it won’t be anything like my normal show, nothing like it. Bob Dylan has recently been awarded the Nobel Prize for literature. Some people have said that it’s wrong to reduce Dylan’s songs to poetry and that it negates them in some way. Do you think it’s possible to appreciate song lyrics just as poetry? Yes, occasionally a song can achieve poetic status. Ernest Hemingway once said that “all sport aspires to boxing” – it’s one man against another, equally matched. I would say that all arts aspire to poetry, be it a play, a movie, a record or a painting. Art has to have that lasting value, that haunting quality, or to use the usual adjective, that poetic quality. I mean a song is a musical thing but it has to have lyrics. The aim is to achieve poetic status, across the genres. Dylan once said the greatest living poet is Smokey Robinson, a comment that was often received as a joke by the po-faced hippy crowd but one I took very seriously. I’m not surprised Dylan’s got the prize, he got so many people into poetry! Unlike Andrew Motion, for example. It’s inspiration from unexpected places, and I’m right behind that. Dylan often speaks rather than sings anyway! Exactly. He’s the king of the protest world, the talking blues. Like ‘Bob Dylan’s Dream’, it’s part of his canon. It’s like Leonard Cohen’s ‘Hallelujah’, he’s said to have written over 80 verses for that song. Leonard Cohen, he understood that a poem is never finished, merely abandoned. You can always find a better way of saying it down the line. Anytime I read my stuff, I realise I could do it again and improve on it. But you’ve gotta move on sometimes, otherwise your repertoire would be one continuous poem – and who’d buy a ticket to see that! But yes, very sad about Leonard Cohen. You’re often called the “punk poet laureate”. If you were offered the job by her Majesty, would you accept? The job of the Laureate is to commemorate Royal events. I’ve got nothing against the Queen, but I’ve always been a Republican. In the interest of chivalry, why give it to someone who couldn’t do the job right. How about Pam Ayres instead? She’d do a great job! I first came across you aged 15, when I saw your performance of ‘Evidently Chickentown’ in the Ian Curtis biopic Control. You played the part yourself,
despite the scene being set nearly 30 years prior. It really gave the poem a new poignancy. It took all my acting ability that one. [laughs] I couldn’t have done that if I’d gone bald! I look a lot younger now than I did then! Do you think ‘Chickentown’ is as relevant today as it was then? There’s always gonna be bad neighbourhoods. Areas get done up, others fall into disrepair; the slums of yesteryear become the Mayfairs of tomorrow. That poem’s done well for me, they actually used it at the end of the TV show The Sopranos. It was TV’s finest hour, after the Simpsons. I’m a mega Simpsons fan, I could watch that show for the rest of my life. What have you got planned for 2017? Oh plenty, I’ve got a lot of work on. More crooning? I hope so… I ain’t gonna retire from poetry though, that’s my main squeeze. These days you don’t have to go to a publishing company to do a book. The best way to hear poetry is live – it doesn’t belong in a book to be ruminated over. I suppose the same goes for punk bands; you don’t need to be signed these days to have your message heard. Exactly, it’s far more punk now than it was then! Back then you had to pay for studio time and selling records was the only way of making any money. These days it’s the other way round: nobody buys the records anymore! Maybe you should do an audiobook? Well that’s what records are for! There’s so many ways to show your work to the public, but I’m not that au-fait with the digital age. I’m an old fashioned print media and records kind of guy. It’s like with the internet, everyone seems to be saying that the internet is a substitute for newspapers, ‘cos you get all shades of opinion. But that’s always been available; just go in a bookies or a coffee bar and you get opinions from everyone! Opinions are like arseholes – everybody’s got one. Newspapers fulfil a criteria, and if they get it wrong, you can sue ‘em! It’s like that Leveson enquiry. Why try to censor the newspapers when they’re liable, why not shut down the internet! It’s the first time in 300 years someone’s tried to curb the free press. Last time it happened the MPs were manhandled out of their vehicles outside parliament. It’s like Thomas Jefferson said: “It’s better to have a free press and no government than a government and no free press.” Some wise words to end on there, John. Thanks for your time! It’s been a pleasure, mate. Make sure you say something nice about the record! It’s an interview not a review, don’t worry! I pity the fool who hasn’t got a copy! You can quote me on that…
“This paper’s boring, mindless and mean. Full of pornography, the kind that’s clean. Where William Hickey meets Michael Caine again and again and again and again.” You never see a nipple in the Daily Express
“You’re like a dose of scabies, I’ve got you under my skin. You make life a fairy tale ... Grimm!” TWAT
“I wanna be your vacuum cleaner, breathing in your dust. I wanna be your Ford Cortina, I will never rust.” I Wanna Be Yours
“No we never met before, I’m very happy to say. Far from perfect strangers, I’d like to keep it that way.” I Don’t Wanna Be Nice
“A string of pearls from the bingo bar, for a girl who looks like Ringo Starr. She’s mad about married men; I mustn’t go down to the sea again.” I Musn’t Go Down to the Sea Again
John Cooper Clarke plays The Leadmill with Hugh Cornwell on December 8th. Head to leadmill.co.uk for tickets and more info. 34 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
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Beer connoisseurs
Head down to the hoppy haven that is Beer Central and take your pick from the vast plethora of real ales, craft beers and ciders on offer. There’s something to suit all tastes and they deliver all over the UK. www.facebook.com/BeerCentralLtd
For the Fashionistas
Quirky handmade and hand printed clothing is always on offer at Syd and Mallory’s, the Division Street store which specialises in vintage attire. This western print crop top is just £23. www.sydandmallory.com
Christmas for Chocoholics
The kiddies
Moonko on Division St is devoted to showcasing creative talent, both locally and throughout the UK. There’s a vast range of gifts to browse, from jewellery to various home goods, and their beautiful handmade soft toys are perfect for the young’uns. www.moonko.co.uk
Eccy Road’s Cocoa Wonderland guarantee a festive treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Hampers made up of exquisite locally-made chocolate are available in different sizes, from £25 to £70. www.cocoawonderland.co.uk
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 39
Relish the occasion
In doubt what to buy a Sheffielder for Christmas? Keep it simple and get him something Henderson’s related! These cufflinks keep you looking smart while representing the Steel City’s favourite condiment. www.hendersonsrelish.com
Fitness fanatics
Front Runner, located on Sharrow Vale Road, is nothing short of a haven for exercise lovers. The TomRom Runner 2 is an ideal companion for anyone looking to burn the Christmas pounds in January. www.frontrunnersheffield.co.uk
Keeping him in check
The Alternative Store has a great selection of winter garms on offer, and we’re big fans of this Brixton Ltd flannel shirt. www.thealternativestore.net
Vinyl lovers
Rustle through the classic card sleeves, £1 LP’s and stacks of 7-inches at Tonearm Vinyl until you find the perfect record. Know a huge Bowie fan? The 6 LP Sound & Vision boxset recently arrived, if you don’t mind the £175 price tag that is. www.tonearmvinyl.co.uk 40 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
For the nostalgic raver
Got a family member or friend who never stops going on about their raving days at Gatecrasher? Help them relive the years with this A3 print of the iconic venue. www.museums-sheffield.org.uk
Reyt Blade
Keep the Blade in your life warm and dry with this official Sheffield United Adidas jacket. www.sufc.co.uk
A fine brew
Brew Foundation will be at Sharrow Vale Xmas Market on the 4th and Nether Edge Market on the 11th, with gift packs of any four beers for just £10. www.thebrewfoundation.co.uk
It’s a pug’s life
Keep your fingers from freezing in the chill with these delightful hand warmers from The Bird’s Yard. D’awh – just look at it! www.birdsyard.co.uk
A foodie delight
Following the roaring success of the first Sheffield Cook Book, Meze Publishing have produced this wonderful sequel to continue championing the city’s ever-growing foodie scene. www.mezepublishing.co.uk
Reyt Owl
Or keep the Owls looking smart with this retro-style top. www.swfc.co.uk
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 41
1. Prickly characters
These cactus magnets can be found at Meadowhead Flowers in the Moor Market. At £6 they’re perfect stocking fillers – though it might be wise to warn the recipient before they reach into open them! www.meadowheadflowers.co.uk
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2. Beady-eyed
These earrings and bracelets from Mhacagi in the Moor Market are handmade by Maasai women in Tanzania, who make jewellery and craft-work to support their families. At just £3 to £4, it doesn’t cost much to brighten someone’s Christmas. mhacagi.deedah.org
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3. Calendar girls
Raising money for local charity Buzz Sheffield, who run an autism friendly stay and play group, 12 brave Moor Market traders have taken their kit off, hiding their modesty with goods from their stalls. Every penny of the £4.99 for the calendar will go to the charity. buzzsheffield.co.uk
4. Boozy books
On top of stocking hundreds of craft beers, Hop Hideout also offer a range of beery gifts. Try these two books: Craft Brew by Euan Ferguson which offers 50 homebrew recipes from the world’s best craft breweries, and Beer Pairing by Julia Herz and Gwen Conley. www.hophideout.co.uk
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5.Cutting edge
Celebrate your city with this laser cut plywood pencil box, or design your own! £9 from Makers on Abbeydale Road. Take part in a laser workshop from £20. Gift vouchers are also available. makersontheedge.com
6. Crafty folk
This antique hand-operated Singer sewing machine comes with a beautifully carved oak case with bobbin handles, dated to around the turn of the last century (estimated 1902). Just £45 from Heeley Bank Antiques Centre. Enquiries: 0114 327 0835. 6
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 43
Festive dinners and lunches available for groups of 8-40 people
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7: Keep it clean
An asset to any vintage collector’s home, this red and cream vintage 1950’s Ewbank Elite carpet sweeper is just £24. facebook.com/RileysandCo
8: Feline friends
Keep the winter blues away this Christmas with Rocky Horrors’ range of alternative gifts for the home. These cat umbrellas at £14.99 and doormats at £19.99 are perfect for any cat lover. www.rockyhorrors.co.uk
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Throughout December celebrate the season with a fabulous Festive Afternoon Tea served in our elegant lounge bar. Festive Afternoon Tea Menu £12.50 per person
Offering a selection of finger sandwiches including of Turkey, cranberry and stuffing // Smoked Salmon blini Freshly baked scones with strawberry preserve & Devonshire clotted cream // An assortment of homemade cakes, mince pies & Christmas cake // Served with your choice of loose leaf teas or coffee.
ENJOY A FAMILY AFTERNOON TEA FOLLOWED BY GIFTS FROM SANTA CHRISTMAS AFTERNOON TEA WITH SANTA Why not come and see Santa at the hotel on Sunday 18th December 2016? From 12noon we will be serving festive afternoon tea at £15.00 pp in the elegant surroundings of the Oak Suite. Our very own Santa will be handing out Christmas gifts to all children aged up to 10 years, giving you an opportunity to take some fabulous festive photos. Why not let the kids hand deliver their Christmas Lists? Santa’s little helpers will work with the festive fairies to make it a magical memory.
Leopold Hotel, 2 Leopold Street, Sheffield S1 2GZ T: +44 (0) 114 252 4000 F: +44 (0) 114 252 4001 Events.sheffield@leopoldhotels.com www.leopoldhotelsheffield.com
PHOTOGRAPHS BY IAN SPOONER
Just a snapshot of what there is to see and do this year… Meet Santa
Back with a bigger, better grotto to keep the main man comfortable throughout the month, the kids can meet Santa before he heads out for his big night shift. Each child gets a pre-Chrimbo gift and a professional photographer will be on-hand to take a family snap, which will be available to purchase afterwards.
The holidays are here!
Unwrapping the Sheffield Christmas Markets 2016
From a handful of festive stalls taking up a small section of Fargate to a winter wonderland experience of 50 log cabins, the Sheffield Christmas Markets are back – bigger and better than ever! Naturally, an abundance of seasonal fare is on offer to fill bellies and warm cockles – think the whole mulled wine, hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts shebang. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg as there will also be a range of street food on offer, with guest traders serving up everything from traditional German sausages to pizza, steaks, venison burgers and much more! The famous Sleigh Bar is back again, an all-new Santa’s Grotto can be found at the heart of the action and the vast array of stalls means that you’ll be able to find a gift to suit pretty much anyone. The market will be open daily, 10am-6pm, right up until Christmas Eve, and The Sleigh Bar will be open 10am-10pm.
Head to www.sheffieldchristmasmarkets.co.uk for more info
Grab a tree
The Tree Amigo have been providing the people of Sheffield with a unique selection of handpicked, sustainably farmed Christmas trees for the best part of fifteen years. Balancing quality with affordable pricing, it’s an ideal place to pick your perfect tree this year.
Set the scene
Returning for their second year, The Sheffield Candle Company sell small batches of handmade luxury fragrance candles. Last year’s favourite, Christmas Pine & Spices, will be back alongside new fragrance Sweet Amaretto Nog and other popular scents Dark Roast Coffee, Endcliffe Park and Bakewell Tart. They will also be selling a range of bath/massage oils and rooms sprays.
Whet your whistle
And what would a Sheffield Christmas Market be without the famous Sleigh Bar nestled at the top of Fargate? Serving hot mulled wine and spiced cider, mince pies and a good range of ales and craft beers to keep the punters happy, it’s where the Exposed team tend to plot up for a good chunk of December.
Some foodie inspiration
Our sister company, Meze Publishing, will also have a stall at the markets selling their stunning cook books – these will include the brand new Sheffield Cook Book: Second Helpings and the official Henderson’s Relish Cook Book.
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 47
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FIX UP, LOOK SHARP
Some of the best men’s fashion on offer from independents in the Steel City.
Brag Vintage 33 High St, Sheffield S1 2GA, www.bragvintage.co.uk Aztec Jacket £35 // Levi’s jeans £25 // Dealer boots £20 // Scarf £6 // Hat £10 // Wrangler denim shirt £18
Cow 156-160 West Street S1 4ES, www.wearecow.com Sheepskin coat £26 // Leather brogues £20 // Jumper £20 // Scarf £5 // Belt £8 // Rework cords £28
Mooch 76 Division Street S1 4GF, www.facebook.com/moochvintage Harrington £35 // Levi’s £20 // Braces £5 // Dr. Martens £45 // Fred £15
Vulgar 127-129 Devonshire St S3 7SB, www.vulgarsheffield.com Wool Reindeer Jumper £15 // Dr Martens Boots £45 // Beanie £5
SUPERSTYLIN’
Some of the best women’s fashion on offer from independents in the Steel City.
Brag Vintage 33 High St, Sheffield S1 2GA, www.bragvintage.co.uk French college sweater £20 // Leather rucksack £20 // Dungarees £28 // Hi top leather converse £25 // Scarf £6
Cow 156-160 West Street S1 4ES, www.wearecow.com Duffle bag £22 // Shoes £26 // Checked flares £18 // Scarf £5 // Skirt £14 // Knitted vest £10 // Zip cardigan £28 // Sheepskin coat £42
Mooch 76 Division Street S1 4GF, www.facebook.com/moochvintage Trousers £20 // Blouse £15 // Belt £5 // Bag £30
Vulgar 127-129 Devonshire St S3 7SB, www.vulgarsheffield.com Pure Wool Jumper £20 // Scarf £5 // Skirt £14 // Dr Martens £40 // Xmas Scrunchies £1 each // Beanie Hat £5
50 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
Hdbrows • Lashes Makeup bar • And more.... 549 Ecclesall Rd, Sheffield S11 8PR Tel:0114 453 6188
Spots for some chilled xmas shopping Words: Kate Mitchell If you’re anything like me, the mad shopping crowds are probably enough to obliterate seasonal spirit before you’ve even hanged the stockings. There’s no need for hot and stuffy festive stress on the high street though, because there are plenty of shopping spots across the city where you can avoid the frenzy, grab some goodies and still have change to spare for the Sleigh Bar. This year, to save you from tears, I did my Christmas shopping early to test drive some great hidden gems for happy browsing. ITH CURL UP W A BOOK r Edge Oxfam, Nethe — when tip Just a quick Birdhouse, to you’ve been e corner and th head round e books in browse th serve it! peace, you de
INDIE MAG HEAVEN La Biblioteka, Pinstone Street city centre I love magazines so I’m excited that Sheffield recently got its very own independent magazine shop. With unusual periodicals on everything from photography and fashion to cooking and cycling, there’s something for everyone, as well as a selection of books and stationary. I picked up this travel journal for my friend so she can dream about her next trip.
QUIRKY COLLECTABLES The Front Parlour, Sharrow Vale Road I’ve spent many happy hours browsing this vintage treasure trove and I challenge you not to find stocking fillers for most of your friends and family here. Retro jewellery, funky vintage clothes, accessories, home furnishings and curious ephemera make up the fabulously quirky collection, and armed with my Christmas shopping list, I was spoilt for choice. I decided on this kitten letter rack as a humourous addition to my boyfriend’s stocking, and a cute tea cosy for my mum.
TIME FOR TEA Birdhouse Tea Company, Nether Edge road Gingerbread house, chocolate orange and mulled wine are just a few of the yummy seasonal blends at Birdhouse and I headed there to grab some of these new flavours, as well as my old favourites, for my the tea lovers in my life. My Dad loves peppermint tea and the Birdhouse blend is one of the best I’ve tried. You can also pick up some great teapots and Sheffield honey is on sale, too — the jars make great stocking fillers.
So you see, with a bit of exploring, there is simply no need to get stranded in the socks aisle of a big department store sweating in three layers and wishing it was January. Happy gift hunting!
52 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
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LADIES STYLIST WANTED FOR 2017 We are looking for ladies hairdressers to join our team at Bunker, Situated in the new urban building www.krynkl.co.uk in Kelham Island. Great earning opportunity if you are passionate and motivated and have a growing clientele . (example taking £1000.00 per week £250.00 rent pw you take £750.00, zero rent three months )
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As another busy 12 months for the Good Vibrations team draws to a close, we showcase some of their finest work of the year – and take a look at how they’re planning to continue rewarding their customers. Over the festive period Good Vibrations are spreading their share of goodwill by introducing two brilliant offers for their customers. First of all, any customer getting a tattoo at Good Vibrations can have a free small GV tattoo, which will be designed by calligraphy specialist Naked Pete during the same session. This will be an ongoing offer. Secondly, any customer who books in for a half-day or more with any artist (excluding apprentices) during December 2016 and January 2017 will receive a special loyalty card that they can use throughout 2017. The card keeps tattoo prices with any artist (including apprentices) at 2016 rates.
Bookings and enquiries can be made by emailing huntersloft@goodvibrationstattoo. co.uk, calling 0114 457 0831 or popping into the studio for a chat. 641 ECCLESALL RD, S11 8PT
TEL:0114 457 0831
233 CROOKES, S10 1TF
TEL:0114 267 1924
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 55
THERE’S A NEW C AT I N T O W N
NOW OPEN UNTIL 2am EVERY NIGHT
CRAFT BEER
BOUTIQUE WINES & SPIRITS
LOCAL ALES
28 lines, 12 hand pulls, and a new cocktail menu Fresh locally sourced British menu Book with us for Christmas Drinks, our private area can accomodate up to 70 people. E-mail faith@devonshirecat.co.uk for group bookings. Join us between 4-8pm every day £2.90 pints of Heathen American pale ale £2 off all cocktails Large glass of wine for the price of a small devonshirecat
facebook.com/devcat
thedevonshirecat
Find us a whisker away from Division Sreet at 49 Wellington Sreet, S1 4HG (0114) 2796700
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COFFIKA NEEDS YOU!
Raise a glass! After two years of closure True North Brew Co have given Dronfield pub and restaurant The Blue Stoops a new lease of life, by completing an extensive refurbishment including a function room and beer garden. With a brand new menu of the finest local ingredients, such as pork from Moss Valley and Beef from Ringinglow, The Stoops (built in 1596) are ready to reinstate themselves in the heart of the Dronfield community. For more information about The Blue Stoops, including their Christmas Market on December 3rd, head to www.bluestoops.co.uk.
Soon to be opening in Meadowhall, new coffee shop Coffika is on the look-out for baristas and customer-focused people to join their team. With coffee beans roasted in Derby, locally sourced treats like cake and chocolate, hand-made gourmet sandwiches, plus milk from Sheffield’s Our Cow Molly, their philosophy is all about eating, living and working well. Coffika are after experienced customer service professionals with a can-do attitude, excellent communication skills and the ability to work well under pressure. The job requires flexibility as you’ll be working at everything from bar operations to sandwich making. If you think you’ve got what it takes and you’d like to be a part of this growing brand, email your CV with a short covering letter to ed@coffika.co.uk.
Gotta have that junk After the success of their Friday Night Bistro at Regather Works in Sharrow, The Real Junk Food Project are launching their second Sheffield venture, the Steeple Corner Café. Joining their global, organic network of pay-as-you-feel cafés, Steeple Corner will be taking food destined for waste and using it to create delicious and healthy meals for all. Roughly one third of the world’s food for human consumption gets lost or wasted — approximately 1.3 billion tonnes — a statistic which you can help change. The café will open during the day (MonWeds & Sat, 10-4pm) for breakfast, lunch, tea, cakes and everything in between, as well as on Saturdays evenings (7-9pm) for pre-booked bistro nights in a relaxed setting. Head to www.therealjunkfoodproject.org for more information on the project and Steeple Corner Café For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 57
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk food review
Sod the turkey 5 alternative Christmas dinner ideas
Beef
Silversmith’s
111 Arundel St, Sheffield S1 2NT // 0114 270 6160 // www.silversmiths-restaurant.com THE PLACE
After celebrating their fifth year in business, Silversmith’s have gone from strength to strength in 2016, extending their opening hours and crafting new menus to include coffee and cake mornings, lunches, and roasts on Sundays. Though keen to test out the whole range, it was the latter that caught our eye; a Silversmith’s approach to a traditional roast dinner can only be a good thing. With a strictly Yorkshire-first philosophy and a reputation for sourcing the best seasonal ingredients produced locally, we knew we’d be in for a treat.
THE FOOD
This same home-grown approach is applied to the drinks menu; I opt for a 2012 Madeleine Angevine Yorkshire white wine, which is extremely smooth and delicate, and a perfect match for the York Moors Wild Pheasant, which I choose as my main. For starters, though, we firstly go for crispy fried pulled pork bon-bons which are served on a skewer with a creamy vintage cheddar fondue to dip into. A few fresh leaves drizzled with a Henderson’s reduction cuts through the richness of the cheese and the saltiness of the pork, making for a perfectly balanced dish. Our second starter of confit chicken terrine
is flecked with herbs which packs it full of flavour. Served with homemade soft granary bread and spicy chorizo jam, the whole dish is brought together by sharp pickles and a couple of fresh leaves. Onto the mains: the Round Green Farm venison loin is served with, like all of the roasts, two puffed-up Yorkshire puddings, crispy roast potatoes, creamy duchess potatoes, sage and onion stuffing and seasonal vegetables, which today are savoy cabbage, parsnips and carrots. The meat is rich, tender, sliced into two thick pieces and served just the right shade of pink. The pheasant is equally tasty, and moist enough to not require a whole load of gravy slathered on it (this I save for filling up the Yorkies to the brim – it’s got to be done).
THE VERDICT
It’s clear a lot of thought has been put into the Sunday roast menu, and it pays off as each element is as flavoursome as the last. While I would have personally liked a bit more greenery on the plate, you can’t change what’s in season, and I’d rather have something fresh than shipped from overseas. Plus, anywhere that offers two Yorkshire puds as standard is a winner in my eyes.
58 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
“I like turkey, but it is a bit dry.” Fed up of this tired conversation at the dinner table every year? Ask yourself why, for the sake of tradition, your taste buds should have to suffer. Answer: they shouldn’t, dear reader. And we all know that when it comes to roast meats, a succulent joint of roast beef is king. Oh, and think about the leftover roast beef sandwiches with mustard on Boxing Day... heaven.
Game
Odds are you don’t eat game every week. Mix things up with a bit of partridge, teal, woodcock, or pheasant – each bird has an individual flavour and only takes about 10 mins in the oven – so just bung them in while eating starters and you’re good to go!
Goose
Ditch the turkey, but keep the traditional vibe going by picking a plump goose for you centrepiece. Historically, goose was the bird of choice for Chrimbo before becoming second-best to the more affordable turkey. But you get plenty more bang for your buck in terms of flavour and meatiness.
Duck
Perfect for smaller gatherings, duck provides tasty fall-off-the-bone meat, rich flavours that go well with festive spices and flavoursome fat that will make the best roasties.
Veggie
Don’t just settle for a nut roast. You are better than that. You want – nay, you deserve – to be just as stuffed with rich food as everyone else, so why not go for a hearty pie? We’d recommend the chestnut bourguignon, head here for a recipe: tinyurl.com/3yhzykd.
Now taking Christmas bookings. Our Christmas set-menu is £22.95 per person, with the option to add a glass of Prosecco for just £3 more! Please contact us for a copy.
Our restaurant is also available for private hire over the festive period. If you would like to host a private party with a bespoke Christmas menu we are very flexible and will cater for all needs.
We are open Christmas Eve from 12pm until 6pm serving Tapas Happy Hour all afternoon.
Now taking bookings for New Years Eve.
Fizzy Friday at Christmas! To celebrate seasons greetings at La Mama, we are offering you a glass of Prosecco for £3 or a bottle for £20, every Friday evening throughout November and December! Enjoy!
Address: 238 Abbeydale Road, Sheffield S7 1FL Phone: 01143279597 Email: lamama.latin@gmail.com Website: www.lamamalatin.co.uk
60 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
Mixing with the best Step away from the sickly mulled wine, put the curdled eggnog down and steer well clear of your Grandma’s decade-old sherry selection – the bars of Sheffield have got all you need to shake up your boozing habits this Christmas.
HEAD OF STEAM
S’MORE-TINI
SOYO
PUMPKIN SPICE MARTINI Pumpkin spice Baileys and espresso. A boozy version of a Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte, It’s cinnamon-y and tastes just like you’re sitting by a fire wrapping Christmas presents. The only problem is you can’t get it all year round!
Absolut vanilla vodka, vanilla syrup, Baileys and milk. Based on the ‘campfire martini’ recipe. The ingredients are shaken with ice and strained into a martini glass then garnished with a s’more. This should be drank while sat in front of our fire to complete the experience.
DAISY’S BAR
COCO LECHE Ron Zacapa 23, Diplomatico Mantuano rum, Pedro Ximenez and cream. Showcasing Diplomatico’s new expression. This will be top of the list for anyone who likes a creamy number.
PICTURE HOUSE SOCIAL
THE GREAT GATSBY
THE OLD HOUSE
HEAD OF STEAM
BLOO88
WEST COAST STORM
TRUFFLE SHUFFLE
DARK & STOUTLY
KANDI CANE
Talisker 10, coconut water, salted pineapple syrup with a clarified lime spray. A Scotch twist on a Pina Colada, flipped on its head. The perfect winter warmer.
Talisker Storm, Amontillado sherry, Pedro Ximenz, White Cacao and salt. Topped with a banana and truffle foam. A luxurious treat, perfect for this time of year.
GINGERBREAD AND ORANGE MANHATTAN
Camerons Tontine milk stout, Captain Morgan spiced rum, ginger liqueur and lime juice. This is one of our great beer cocktails. Camerons Tontine milk stout is delicately layered on top of a variation of the ‘dark and stormy’ mix, with the rum, lime and ginger flavours cutting through the velvet of the stout.
Gingerbread syrup, fresh lemon juice, cranberry Juice, orange Liquor and cherry infused bourbon, garnished with a delicious candy cane. Deliciously sweet, syrupy and suppable, this one’s a real indulgence!
Rittenhouse Rye 100 Proof, gingerbread syrup, Grand Marnier, Noilly Prat, Antica Formula and orange bitters, garnished with orange peel hung over the side of the cocktail glass. Festive, boozy and warming, even though it’s served ice cold. Down in three gulps please sirs and madams! WARNING: DO NOT BINGE DRINK. IT IS BAD.
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 61
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
TIPIS & TIPPLES
When the God of Thunder can’t make it back to Valhalla for a post giant slaying drink, he sets up shop in God’s own county.
This festive season, the Peace Gardens will tip its helmet to Yorkshire’s Viking heritage when it hosts THOR’s tipi bar. Two linked canvas tipis will form the bar with cosy furs, wooden tables and twinkling lights decorating the inside while an outdoor heated area cocooned by Christmas trees is the perfect spot for taking in the season’s hustle and bustle. With a selection of draught ales, craft beers, mulled wine and hot cider on offer, there are plenty of drinks to revel in. However, there is more to THOR’s than just a tipple in a tipi. Along with a fully licensed bar, local street food company Cow Boys will be preparing delicious homemade winter fare on an outdoor barbeque every day and inside, the hot chocolate station is sure to warm the cockles – and tempt a sweet tooth with a choice of topping. The brains behind PapaKåta party tipis and Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland have brought the pop-up bar here to put Sheffield’s Christmas celebrations on the map. Amanda Monaghan, owner of the York-based PapaKåta tipi company told Exposed: “We are really excited that we can finally offer something with a twist to Sheffield’s residents and visitors.” The sentiment was echoed by Maria Farrugia, Executive Producer at Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, the company behind Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland for over a decade. “Seeing how other cities were putting people in the Christmas mood made me want to create something. We now have something to rival other places in the UK. Sheffield will not be disappointed!” THOR’S tipi bar is open from 10:30am-11pm daily until 31st December (closed Christmas Day). 62 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
Fo
24TH NOVEMBER TO 31ST DECEMBER 2016
TIPI BAR
• 10.30AM TO 11PM • 7 DAYS PER WEEK (EXCEPT CHRISTMAS DAY), PEACE GARDENS, SHEFFIELD THOR’S tipi bar is a fun and unique experience, nestled in the heart of the city. This Nordic bolt-hole welcomes you with an open fire, cosy furs and twinkling lights. Enjoy the best ales, mulled wine, hot cider, hot chocolate and Prosecco and if you’re feeling peckish, feast on wholesome winter fodder from our outdoor BBQ.
For more information email conquer@thorstipi.com or call 01653 610020. #THORSSheffield | thorstipi.com
DRINK • FEAST • CONQUER • REPEAT
TA PAS
R E STAU R A N T
&
CUBAN
BAR
NEW FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS
live music LAID BACK
vibes
TA PAS
R E STAU R A N T
-
a n d
&
CUBAN
BAR
-
A
cocktail lounge Upstairs 10pm-1.30am
Join us every weekend “Live Music & cocktail lounge” upstairs at Cubana. Our live music cocktail lounge upstairs offers the perfect soulful experience for a chilled catch up chat with friends while sipping on a selection of gorgeous cocktails. We’re known for our vibrant Latino offering downstairs, but the launch of our live music lounge means that you’ll also now be able to slink upstairs for a more mellow vibe and listen to some of Sheffield’s most talented artists performing every Friday and Saturday night.
EVERY & F R I DAY Y A D R SAT U ROM F UPSTAIRS
0am 10pm-1.3
From the beautiful, smooth, soulful vocals of Emily Claire West and Katie Stewart to the sexy saxophone and mellow Blue Note Jazz sounds of Samantha Hamstead or Piero Tucci playing Bossa Nova, Funk & Soul from 10pm through till 2am. Everyone’s welcome (no need to have dined with us) and customers can pre-book tables for drinks and be lavished with fabulous table service all night long – so there is no need to queue at the bar.
We do look after you…
RESERVE YOUR TABLE NOW...
CALL 01142 760475 CUBANATAPASBAR.CO.UK
F R EREY! ENT
NEW weekend nights
Whats on
THINGS TO DO
HAGGLERS NIGHT MARKET
Hagglers Corner // December 2 // Free Hagglers Corner have organised their first ever night market, where you can indulge yourself in all manner of merriment. Head down and enjoy the retro vibes, arts and crafts, street food, resident DJs and live music from local acts. www.hagglerscorner.co.uk
CHRISTMAS PEDDLER
92 Burton Road // December 2-3 // Free The usual deal: a line-up of the best street food traders, craft beers, cocktails and live music. But with it being the last one before Chrimbo, there’ll be a nice festive twist. www.peddlermarket.co.uk
VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS MARKET
Kelham Island Museum // December 3-4 // Adults £6; U16 free The 24th instalment of the ever-popular Victorian Christmas Market arrives at Kelham Island for the weekend. With over 120 different stalls selling everything from festive food to jewellery, it’s the perfect place to grab some unique stocking fillers, and, illuminated by authentic Victorian gas lamps, this year’s event will have you feeling like you’re in the middle of a festive Dickens’ novel. www.simt.co.uk
Looking to plan some festive merrymaking this year? We've got you covered. LAST LAUGH COMEDY CLUB CHRISTMAS
City Hall // Selected dates throughout December // £20 Get down to Yorkshire’s longest-running comedy club at City Hall’s intimate Memorial Hall for a wide selection of both established and up-and-coming stand-up comedic talent. With food and a late-night disco also available, it’s the ideal Christmas night out. www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk
MASQUERADE BALL 2016
Ponds Forge // December 3, 10, 16 & 17 // £48 A fine evening of dining and dancing, indulge in a choice menu and enjoy live music from dapper chaps The English Gentlemen. DJs will then be on-hand playing a wide selection of floorfillers to keep the party going through the night. www.sivchristmasparties.co.uk
CHRISTMAS AT CHATSWORTH
Chatsworth House // November 5 – January 3 (closed Dec 24-26 and Jan 1) // Prices from £12 There are not many places that look quite as gorgeous as Chatsworth House come Christmastime. This year’s theme is based on The Nutcracker, and will see the house transformed into a festive homage to the ballet, complete with lavish costumes, decorations, wonderful stage sets and a few special surprises in store for visitors. Perfect for a family day out. www.chatsworth.org
THE BURLY Q BURLESQUE AND CABARET WINTER BALL
City Hall // December 10 // £22.50 Following three previous sell-out Christmas balls, Burly Q have another evening of daring escapist entertainment in store. Featuring a line-up of internationally acclaimed performers such as Vicky Butterfly, Beau Rocks and Bonnie Fox, this year’s decadent blend of burlesque, cabaret and circus promises to be another belter. www.burlyq.co.uk For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 65
Whats on
THINGS TO DO
PPG PRESENTS MALL GRAB, BYRON THE AQUARIUS & ROSS FROM FRIENDS (LIVE) Hope Works Courtyard // December 9 // From £14 Local house and techno promoters Pretty Pretty Good continue their string of impressive line-ups with two Sheffield debuts for Australia’s producer of the moment Mall Grab and Detroit poster-boy Byron the Aquarius. There will also be 3-man live set by Ross From Friends and appearances from Sheffield-based producer Al Zanders, Banana Hill’s Cervo and the PPG residents. www.hope-works.co.uk
HUNIE PRESENTS MAURICE FULTON
CHRISTMAS WITH THE OVERTONES
City Hall // December 9 // Prices from £22.50 Back by popular demand, The Overtones bring their exquisite vocal harmonies to the City Hall for a set filled with an assortment of Christmas crackers. www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk
SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS
Lyceum Theatre // December 9 – January 8 // Prices from £13.50 It’s the timeless Brothers Grimm tale for this year’s Lyceum panto, a perfect outing for the whole family. With this year’s strong casting, stunning costumes and hilarious script, it promises to be one of the most enjoyable yet. www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk
THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE
The Montgomery Theatre // December 17 // Prices from £13 Following 2015’s sell-out tour of The Snow Queen, APL Theatre is back with a brand new adaptation of the C.S. Lewis classic. Follow the four young evacuees, Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy, as they are sent to a grand country mansion and discover a portal to a new world through a mysterious old wardrobe. www.themontgomery.org.uk
SANTA, ELVES AND SLEIGH BELLS
Tropical Butterfly House // December 17-24 (& weekends in December) // Prices from £9.50 There are all the makings of a great festive day out for all the family on offer at the Tropical Butterfly House this year. Meet Santa in his Grotto, take a magical sleigh ride through the winter wood, visit the elf workshop and meet the resident animals at the farm barn. www.butterflyhouse.co.uk
DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS FROZEN
Sheffield Arena // December 14-18 // Prices from £19.80 Enjoy the spectacle of a fantastic winter wonderland when the popular children’s phenomenon is brought to life on the ice. Join sisters Anna and Elsa and their pals Olaf, Kristoff and Sven on their journey, with special appearances from many other beloved Disney characters. www.sheffieldarena.co.uk
Trafalgar Warehouse // December 3 // £8-12 Hunie follow up their first event with Jeremy Underground with another fine booking, Sheffield-based DJ Maurice Fulton, best known for his production duties on Crystal Waters’ ‘Gypsy Woman’, who will be playing a 3-hour set after Danny Wooton warms up the crowd. www.facebook.com/huniepresents
BLUEWAVE: IN THE JUNGLE W/ JUBEI
The Harley // December 9 // From £6 Metalheadz favourite Jubei hits the Harley this month for a night of jungle-filled madness with grime/ DnB promoters Bluewave, who have recently expanded to London. Guaranteed rewinds and bass-heavy breakbeats all night long! www.theharley.co.uk
GATECRASHER BOXING DAY
Area Sheffield // December 26 // From £20 Nostalgia will be in no short supply this Boxing Day down at the newly refurbished Area, formerly Embrace nightclub, which re-opened this August in glorious fashion with Roger Sanchez. With favourites Aly & Fila playing a ‘23 Years of Gatecrasher’ set, what better way to burn off that Christmas dinner this Boxing Day? www.areasheffield.co.uk
DELVE DEEPER BOXING DAY FT. MOODYMANC
SOYO // December 26 // £3 before Midnight, £5 after Manchester producer Moodymanc brings his jazz-infused deep house vibes to Sheff this Boxing Day for local promoters Delve Deeper. With residents from Kabal and All Ears spinning all night in room 2, it’s bound to be one helluva Boxing Day blow-out. www.delvedeeper.co.uk 66 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
Whats on
THINGS TO DO
THE NEW YEAR’S BALL
City Hall // December 31 // From £4.50 City Hall’s famous Tea Dances, now in their 84th year, are always vibrant social affairs and their New Year’s Eve ball is no exception. Get on your dancing shoes and prepare to waltz your way into 2017! Ticket prices include a drink to toast at midnight and entry to the glamorous Arches Bar. www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk/New-YearsBall
THE BASSLINE FESTIVAL - BASSFEST SHEFFIELD MAGNA NEW YEARS EVE Magna Science Adventure Centre // December 31 // From £27.50 If Bassline’s your vice then New Years Eve should be a no-brainer this year, with all the finest connoisseurs of womps congregating at Magna. DJ Q and My Nu Leng will be battling it out in a b2b set, while man of the moment Chris Lorenzo headlines a 4 stage line-up of 50 acts. thebasslinefestival.eventcube.io
PEDDLER MARKET NYE SPECIAL
92 Burton Rd // December 31 // £20 KOG & The Zongo Brigade, Jungle Lion and Steel City Rhythm will be bringing in the new year at Peddler Market, with more acts to still be announced. Street food, craft beer, cocktails and fizz will keep you refreshed ‘til the wee hours. www.peddlermarket.co.uk
FUNKY FUSION FIESTA
Cubana // December 31 // £5 after 10pm Party Cuban carnival style with live music from the likes of Emily Claire West, Paul Newman, Shaun McLoughlin and Shaun Ward, plus DJs spinning the finest salsa, samba, mambo, bachata and 70s-80s funk and disco. Enjoy a New Years Eve tapas feast upstairs for just £34.50 per person including free entry to the fiesta downstairs. Head to the website for the menu and booking details. www.cubanatapasbar.co.uk
GRANDÉ NEW YEARS EVE
SOYO // December 31 // £6 Indulge in a Grandé night with extra New Years Eve extravagance. House, funk and soul will play out in the main room while smooth RnB will soundtrack the Yo bar. Arrive early for 2-4-1 drinks until midnight or book your tix in advance (below) for a free glass of prosecco and a cheaper price of just a fiver! soyo.nutickets.com
SPEAKEASY PARTY
Old House // December 31 // Free Party prohibition-style with DJ Mike Tate on the decks. Fancy dress encouraged! Think flapper dresses, suave suits and dancing shoes. Tables and drinks packages are available by calling 0114 2808230. www.theoldhousesheffield.com
For the full lowdown on things to do this Christmas head to www.exposedmagazine.co.uk. 68 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
CHRISTMAS BEER FEST WEEK SATURDAY17TH DECEMBER TILL CHRISTMAS EVE
RARE BEERS & FESTIVE FAVOURITES PLUS MULLED BEER, WINE & CIDER
THE FAT CAT
MULTI AWARD WINNING VENUE Real Ale Craft Beer Homemade Food 23 Alma St, Sheffield S3 8SA
Home of the Sheffield Steelers
Madness
Disney On Ice
World’s No.1 Indoor Motorcycle Trial
+ Lightning Seeds Fri 9 December
Frozen
Avenged Sevenfold
Marvel Universe LIVE! Strictly Come Thur 19-Sun 22 January Dancing Live Tour
+ Disturbed, In Flames
Wed 14-Sun 18 December
Sat 7 January
Wed 25 & Thur 26 January
Sun 15 January
Arenacross
Jack Whitehall
Sat 11 February
Wed 15 February
Drake
Paul Carrack
Fri 17 February
Fri 24 February
The X Factor Live Tour
Cirque du Soleil Varekai Thur 2-Sun 5 February
Fri 3 March
Olly Murs
Russell Howard
The Who
Fri 10 & Sat 11 March
Fri 7 April
Joe Bonamassa
The Vamps
Betway Premier League Darts
Mon 24 April
Fri 28 April
Mon 10 April
Thur 4 May
Professor Brian Cox Live
Bruno Mars
Iron Maiden
WWE Live!
Micky Flanagan
Take That
Yorkshire Cosplay Convention
Jeff Lynne’s ELO
Little Mix
Mrs Brown’s Boys
Steelers Ice Hockey
Thur 30 Nov-Sat 2 December 2017
December 2016 fixtures Nottingham, Coventry, Manchester
Sat 6 May
Fri 5 May
Thur 11 May
Sat 3 & Sun 4 June
John Bishop Sat 4 & Sun 5 November 2017
Fri 12 May
+ Shinedown Wed 10 May
Mon 29 & Tue 30 May
Fri 27 & Sat 28 October
Wed 21 June
www.sheffieldarena.co.uk
Box office open to personal callers 9am - 6pm Mon-Sat Telephone bookings 0114 256 5656 9am - 8pm Mon-Sat
SheffieldArena @SheffieldArena
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
TOP PICKS
y
y
What does Father Christmas do when his elves misbehave? He gives them the sack. Why are Christmas trees bad at knitting? Because they always drop their needles. How do snowmen get around? By riding an ‘icicle. What’s white and goes up? A confused snowflake. What happened to the man who stole an advent calendar? He got 25 days.
JAMES ACASTER’S TOP 5 ONE-LINERS “LAST YEAR I SAW THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING, LOVED IT. SHOULD’VE BEEN CALLED LOOK WHO’S HAWKING, THAT’S MY ONLY CRITICISM.” “LEADERSHIP LOOKS FUN, BUT IT’S STRESSFUL. JUST LOOK AT SOMEONE LEADING A CONGA.” “NOTHING EVER FEELS NEW FOREVER... EXCEPT FOR CURLY FRIES.” “WHAT HAPPENS IN THE BERMUDA TRIANGLE STAYS IN THE BERMUDA TRIANGLE.” “I’M NOT A VERY ADVENTUROUS PERSON, I’VE ONLY EVER USED ONE SIDE OF A CHEESE GRATER.”
25th Years of Reeves and Mortimer: The Poignant Moments
Sheffield City Hall // December 13 // £29.50 Celebrating the first 25 years of being the nation’s favourite comedy duo, Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer will be entertaining audiences this month with their inimitable style of nostalgic comedy. Popular characters Man with the Stick, The Stotts, Mulligan and O’Hare will feature alongside music, dancing and even a bit of magic; promising plenty of uplifting and touching moments. www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk
Christmas Last Laugh Comedy Cabaret
Sheffield City Hall // From December 2 // £20 A night full of lots of seasonal laughter, dancing, eating and drinking; at this year’s Last Laugh Comedy Cabaret you’ll be kept entertained by some of the best UK and international comedians in the biz. As always each night will be followed by a cheesy disco, perfect for your work’s festive do. lastlaughcomedy.co.uk
Giggle Aid Sheffield
Bramall Lane // December 11 // £20 Starring TV star James Acaster, a regular on just about every panel show going, this year’s Giggle Aid will also see stand-up comedy from top names like Stuart Goldsmith, Junior Simpson, Jenny Collier, President Obonjo and Sully O’Sullivan, to name a few. Money raised from ticket sales, auction and raffle will go towards the British Red Cross. See the website for more details. www.redcross.org.uk
Should I Stay Or Should I Go Gong Show: Spiky Mike
New Barrack Tavern // December 27 // £5.50 Comedy’s answer to The X-Factor; 12 acts compete in 2 minute sets as the audience judge who stays and who goes. With Spiky Mike on Funhouse Comedy compering, expect plenty of off the cuff one-liners and fast-paced gags to keep the momentum going. newbarracktavern.com
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 71
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TOP PICKS
5 MINS WITH...
Level 2: Julio Bashmore / Jasper James / Or:la
Foundry and Fusion // December 2 // From £12 The first Friday of the month sees new club-night Level 2 launched beneath the streets of the Steel City, with none other than famed producer Julio Bashmore. He is joined by Subclub poster boy and son of the legendary Glasgow DJ Harri, Jasper James, hot off the back of his summer residency at Phonox in Brixton. Support from Hotflush recordings latest signee, Or:la. www.su.sheffield.ac.uk
Saul’s Sessions presents Project Pablo
The Harley // December 5 // From £4 Hitting the Harley for his second session is Sheffield’s newest party-starter, Saul, who has invited Canadian producer Project Pablo all the way from Montreal for his Steel City debut. Fresh from his Boiler-room debut, Project Pablo has been hitting the circuit hard, playing everywhere from Berlin to Brisbane with his Mood Hut inspired house productions. Support comes from the Saul’s Sessions residents with Leroy on warm-up duties. www.theharley.co.uk
EARL GATESHEAD
Psyberia: Rebirth
Hey Earl! How you doing? I’ve just played four shows in a row, so a little dizzy! I’m recovering for a bit, then off to see The Skatalites in London tonight. You’re very well known for your shows with Trojan Sound System since the early 2000s, touring the globe with their distinctive sound and message. What is it about the label that is so special to you? I actually left the Trojan Sound System a few months ago, but I love Trojan and still play the records all the time. This weekend I played at the Madness festival, House of Fun, and must have played about 30 Trojan records in both two-hour sets I played. They’re just beautifully produced records, in every way. They’re perfectly produced and still sound as bright and sharp now as they did when they came out. Trojan brought reggae from Jamaica to the world and I see myself as part of that, a bit of a missionary! You’re often famed for your “Yeah Yeah” catchphrase. What’s the story behind that one? There’s no story really, I don’t know why I said it! I started saying it as soon as I picked up the mic. After a while I started saying it differently to change it up. I use it as filler in a way. It was a massive surprise that people picked up on it. We’re hyped for your show at Yellow Arch on December 10th. Have you played in Sheffield many times before? When was the first? Oh yes, a long time ago at the Tuesday Club, must be 10 years ago now. I also played at A Specials after-party once, and The Harley twice – that one’s particularly nice. Right nice crowd, really accepting of tunes they don’t know. So yeah, I look forward to playing in Sheffield. I’m an old time Socialist, and I see Sheffield as the Detroit of the UK, in that it’s a gritty place that makes great music and has great people.
CODE: Warehouse // December 16 // FREE Dinglefest and Psyberia’s famed parties on racetracks and farms come to Code’s warehouse for a night of psychedelic shindiggery, from progressive house to trance through to Full-on, Twilight, Morning and beyond! With a live headline performance from Research & Development as well as DJ sets all through the night this is a free party you do not want to miss. Snap up the free tickets from the link below. tinyurl.com/zfx8txl
NOX vs Gett Off Xmas Clash Ft. Kahn & Neek, LDizz, Dr Cryptic, Little Mesters
The Night Kitchen // December 9 // From £8 Nothing says Christmas more than a grime clash, so NOX and Gett Off will be at the Night Kitchen this month getting down and dirty with 140 selectors Kahn & Neek, who you might have heard of from Mala’s Deep Medi label. With LDizz on MC duties, there’ll be bars for days, maybe even 12. Support comes from locals and 4x4 bass badmen Dr Cryptic and Little Mesters. www.facebook.com/TheNightKitchen
TNK x Sulta Selects: Denis Sulta & Dixon Avenue Basement Jams
The Night Kitchen // December 16 // From £18 TNK’s last party of the year features favourites Denis Sulta and Dixon Avenue Basement Jams. With the former’s 2016 release ‘It’s Only Real’ being one of the hottest house tracks of the year, his rise to the very top of the circuit is only just getting started. www.facebook.com/TheNightKitchen
Former leader of Trojan Sound System, Earl Gateshead is the godfather of the UK roots reggae scene, bringing music from the likes of Bob Marley & The Wailers, Dennis Brown, Toots & The Maytals, John Holt and many more to the British Isles, since the late ‘70s. Leo Burrell caught up with him ahead of his set at Yellow Arch’s Festive Reggae Party this month.
Catch Earl at Yellow Arch’ Festive Reggae Party on December 10th. Head to www. yellowarch.com for event info and tickets. For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 73
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“A lot of the best music this year has been from independent labels. Pop is totally back in a big way, yet grime and hip-hop still maintain their popularity without a lot of major label support. RnB will always thrive with its wide fan base. I have had so many great new artists in the live lounge recently,
Trevor Nelson, the longstanding Radio 1 DJ and arbitrator of all things soul and RnB, brings his vast collection of club classics to Sheff later this month. We got to know a bit more about the man behind the decks. “I’ve been lucky enough to have many highlights in my career. But I reckon hitting 20 years at the BBC (so far) is the big one – and still feels weird to me!”
“If I could bring back one artist from my latest Club Classics album I would bring back the godfather of soul, James Brown. Without his influence, hip hop, funk and RnB would sound very different today.”
NAME A SONG PERFECT FOR…
Packing out a dancefloor Stevie Wonder – Superstition Clearing a dancefloor Anything by Honey G A cheeky slow dance Blackstreet – Don’t Leave A spot of breakdancing Incredible Bongo Band – Apache
“My favourite Christmas banger to drop at shows is Kurtis Blow – ‘Christmas Rapping’. Mainly though, the Club Classics show will feature tunes from as far back as the seventies to the noughties. It’s all about party funk and soul!” “My earliest memories of music are listening to the radio as an infant and my dad playing his selection of crooner music on a Sunday in our home. I only wanted to DJ as a hobby until I was around 18 years old, and it was only when I began doing legal radio that things began feeling professional.”
“There is some criteria that has to be met for songs to make it onto one of my compilations. First of all, I genuinely have to like them of course. The other main criteria is that I must’ve have dropped them in a club or party at some point in my career. There are songs on there that I played at my first ever gig and songs I played at most recent gig.”
Trevor Nelson brings his selection of club classics to Sheffield’s O2 Academy on Friday 16th December and his latest album is out now. Get tickets and more info at www. academymusicgroup.com.
THE FOUNDRY - SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 14TH DECEMBER TICKETS £21.00 ADVANCE DOORS 7PM
FOUNDRYSU.COM 76 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
JOE FOOD (EXPOSED CO-EDITOR) KANO – MADE IN THE MANOR
RACHEL HEWARD (EXPOSED CO-EDITOR) GLASS ANIMALS – HOW TO BE A HUMAN BEING
MARC BARKER (EXPOSED DESIGNER) MONGRELS – ATTACK THE MONOLITH
Skepta’s Mercury Prize-winning Konnichiwa might be the most celebrated grime album of the year, but this return to form from Kano pips it for me. The veteran MC is in a reflective mood as he traces back his East London roots with a mixture of soft hip-hop tracks and energetic bangers. There’s been plenty of exciting young talent coming through the scene recently, but it’s the older dons who have set the bar in 2016. Best tracks: ‘New Banger’, ‘Garage Skank’ and ‘3 Wheels Up’.
Undoubtedly my most listened to album of the year, this record combines mad stories from the band’s time on the road with musical influences that are all over the shop – hip-hop beats, indie-pop, electronica, to name but a few. The crazy mish-mash all works beautifully. Brilliant live, too. Best tracks: ‘Life Itself’, ‘Youth’ and ‘Cane Shuga’.
Though recording of the album began in 2006, then was only finished after a decade-long break, Kid Acne and Benjamin have crafted a lo-fi, old skool audio kaleidoscope that touches on everything from Ulysses 31 and The Crystal Maze to werewolves and Ready Brek. Geeky, charming and entertaining hip-hop with a South Yorkshire accent Best tracks: ‘Full Moon/Half Moon’ and ‘He Walks Barefoot’.
LISA PULLEN (PUBLISHING MANAGER, MEZE PUBLISHING/EXPOSED) JAMES BLAKE – THE COLOUR IN ANYTHING
MARK PERKINS (EXPOSED MUSIC CONTRIBUTOR) IGGY POP – POST POP DEPRESSION
CHRIS LORD (EXPOSED MUSIC CONTRIBUTOR) RIVAL SONS – HOLLOW BONES
LEO BURRELL (EXPOSED INTERN AND LEROY, DJ) RADIOHEAD, A MOON SHAPED POOL
I thought at the start of the year when this came out it would take some beating, and it hasn’t happened. Iggy’s (last ever?) album is the equal of anything he’s ever done. The collaboration between Josh Homme and our own Matt Helders is inspired. Best tracks: ‘Break Into Your Heart’, ‘Gardenia’, ‘Paraguay’.
Long Beach, California’s favourite sons inject new life into the classic rock formula with their mesmeric fifth LP. Currently supporting Black Sabbath on their farewell world tour, this is a record characterised by lasting songs, guitar tones to die for, and a genuine sense of depth – a stunning achievement. Best tracks: ‘Thundering Voices’, ‘Pretty Face’, ‘Hollow Bones Pt.2’.
An unlikely choice considering the quality of the band’s prior output… but I couldn’t bear the thought of its omission; it deserves just as much acclaim. No doubt in a few years’ time (and after Glasto) it will be considered a modern masterpiece. Best tracks: No favourite tracks, the total is far greater than the sum of its parts!
It’s delicate, beautiful and inspiring. It’s been my go-to album for months, especially when I have a long drive ahead of me. Best tracks: ‘I Need a Forest Fire’ ft. Bon Iver and ‘Always’.
HEATHER HAWKINS (SALES, MEZE PUBLISHING/EXPOSED) ANDERSON PAAK – MALIBU A sincere and honest – yet hugely fun – hip/hop album. Melodic, fresh and influences lending from all different types of genres such as soul, rap, and R&B. It always lifts my spirits as a singalong album, but also exercises the gangster in me that likes a casual rap session. Best tracks: ‘Am I Wrong’, ‘Your Heart Don’t Stand A Chance’, ‘The Season/Carry Me’.
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For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk 2016 has been another exciting year for Sheffield music, but one artist in particular has been making big movements on the UK scene. MC Coco, a veteran of Steel City grime, moved to the capital in 2015 and since hooking up with fellow native Toddla T has rarely been away BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra playlists. With a back-catalouges of impressive genre-crossing tracks earmarking the artist as one to look out for next year, Exposed caught up with him to reflect on his journey so far. First of all, congrats on what’s been a huge 12 months for you. What moments stand out? It’s been mad bro, and there have been so many! Things have happened in such a short space of time that it becomes really hard to comprehend. Obviously, doing stuff like the BBC proms was mad for me and going to Jamaica to do music – those sorts of things, for an artist, are massive. When did things start to take off? Was there a specific moment which sparked things? I guess it all started when I moved to London. It wasn’t just for music, more a general change of life. My girlfriend lives here and I decided to go for it. Andy Nicholson [Sticky Blood] introduced me to Toddla when he was performing at XOYO, and I ended up going to his studio and laying down a few riddimz. We both thought: ‘Sheffield man are here now, so let’s do something to represent.’ The grime scene has historically been dominated, in a commercial sense anyway, by London-based artists. Do you think your broad Sheffield vocals have helped or hindered you? A bit of both really. I think sometimes when people hear something different, they don’t always take to it straight away. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve been shown loads of love up here too – but, with the standard of grime music at the minute, I knew it wasn’t going to be an easy ride for me. I just thought to myself: do your thing and go harder than anyone else. How did growing up in Sheffield shape you? Did you always want to do music? Honestly, I used to love football! I played for a team called Pro Socker Pumas and was a decent player to be fair! So, yeah, I suppose it was football as a real young’un before it became more about music in secondary school. I went to Hinde House and there was a gang of kids there who’d MC and do music, so I got involved with them. Did you start as many kids did back then, rapping over bassline from phones? Pretty much, yeah. And you know what it’s like in Sheffield, word spreads quickly and there was me and a collective of MCs from the city all doing our thing for a while. Obviously niche and bassline were both huge on the Sheffield scene back then. Were they a big part of your early music influences? Nah, I’m going to be honest and say I wasn’t really into it. Obviously, a lot of people from the city dabbled in it and some good tracks came out – but I fell in love with grime straightaway. But your releases over the last year or so have crossed genres. There are the high-tempo grime tracks like ‘Target Practice’, the more hip-hop
influenced stuff like ‘Big Bou Yah’ and ‘My G’, and your latest track with Shola Ama and Deep Green is a laid-back RnB song. Do you have a preference of genre to spit on? If you asked me two or three years ago, I would have said grime straightaway. I’ve opened my eyes a bit since though; I just love music and will try anything that feels good. It’s good to show you’ve got more than one style in your locker, too. Definitely, man. I’m not really your standard sort of angry grime MC. Obviously, artists express themselves however they want, but I’m more about enjoying it. You get me? That’s always the end goal in music: have fun and enjoy it. Otherwise why do it? The northern grime scene is really hotting up at the moment. Is there anyone from Sheff we should be keeping an eye on in 2017? Plenty, man! Deep Green for a start. Kannan is another sick MC – that guy’s really got something. And also L-Dizz, because that guy’s fire! I keep telling those guys to do their thing and it’ll eventually come to them. Do you reckon there could be any scope for a northern version of Roll Deep at some point? A northern Roll Deep? Who knows, man! You can never say. However, from a personal perspective, I reckon the time has probably passed for my generation of northern MCs… maybe. Plus, having a crew behind you doesn’t always have to be a group of MCs. I’ve got a crew of people behind me, working hard behind the scenes, wanting the best for me and pushing in the right direction together. That’s the most valuable type of crew. On another note, your ‘Save Sheffield Trees’ track with Toddla went viral earlier this year. How do you feel now that they’ve started chopping down the trees along Rustlings Road? It’s bad, innit? It was a bit of fun, but obviously it struck a chord with Sheff people – we ended up in The Star, so it must have meant something! Maybe you should write a new diss track in light of recent events? I know! They’re doing this protest event soon and I really want to perform and play that tune. It would go off. As well as new music, you’re working on a theatre project on the moment as well? Yeah, with a brilliant lady called Emma Hill, who I worked with previously on a play she wrote called ChipShop the Musical. She’s working on something called the Shakespeare Project, retelling the plays through grime and hip-hop. I thought it sounded interesting and wanted to give it a go. I’ve been writing tunes and performing, which is really interesting, man – something a bit different. What have you learnt from 2016 and what are the plans for 2017? I’ve always stuck by my main lesson in life – be humble. I’ve also learnt to be original with what you do, and don’t spend time looking around at what others are doing. The main aim is always to get the most out of each single and make sure they’re as good as they can be. But I don’t stress too much, man. I’m just gonna keep doing what I’ve been doing, as it’s got me this far already
Coco’s latest single ‘Water’s Run Deep’ featuring Shola Ama and Deep Green is out now. www.thecoco.uk.com 80 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
PHOTO: JESSY B For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 81
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68 |l For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk 82
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O D
The album pretty much came out of nowhere It will feature a track written by Doherty as a teenager
One of the songs, ‘She Is Far’, will be of particular interest to early Libertines fans. It was written by Doherty before the band had even released a track, and despite a bootleg version doing the rounds online for the past 15 years, it has never been recorded in a studio until now.
The meeting between Doherty and producer Johann Scheerer came from the singer not having a place to stay when Babyshambles played Hamburg in 2014. Schreeher said he could stay at his apartment if they could record a few tracks in the studio upstairs; Doherty had a few tracks he felt unsuitable for The Libertines or Babyshambles and the album started to take shape.
It will be his most personal record to date
“I’m really inside these new songs. I believe in them,” Pete has said about the record. The album was worked on almost in secret, with no outside influence other than the odd creative input from Johann Scheerer [producer]. One of the eleven songs includes a reworked version of his tribute to friend Amy Winehouse, ‘Flags From The Old Regime’.
11:35PM
It is 100% Pete Doherty
5 things we know about the upcoming Pete Doherty album
Five years since the release of his first solo album Grace/Wastelands and a number of ups-and-downs in-between, including a fruitful visit to a Thailand rehab centre, Pete Doherty has had plenty to dwell on ahead of Hamburg Demonstrations. Here are a few things we already know about the upcoming record. The Hamburg Demonstrations is out December 2nd.
Much of his work with The Libertines, Babyshambles and on Grace/Wastelands was co-written, but the material on Hamburg Demonstrations is completely solo. “There aren’t a lot of 100 percent Doherty compositions but this record is,” he claimed.
One of the songs was inspired by the Bataclan terror attacks
‘Hell to pay at the gates of Heaven’ was written following the 2015 attacks on Paris music venue The Bataclan. The song, which draws a dark parallel between young men putting their faith in music or religious ideology, contains the lyric ‘‘Come on boys, choose your weapons / J-45 or an AK-47?” – referencing the Gibson J-45, John Lennon’s favourite guitar.
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 83
SHAKESPEARES LISTINGS Friday 2nd december
Siren craft tap takeover 7 casks, 7 kegs and meet the brewer from one of London’s and the UK’s leading craft breweries. 5:00pm start, free entry. Wagon Wheel presents Boss Caine, Mark Wynn, Dave Woodcock and Joe Solo. Starts at 8:00pm. £5 from wegottickets.com or £6 on the door
Saturday 10th
Voted Sheffield Camra Pub of the Year 2013 Cask ales on rotation (over 2000 in less then 3 years), Over 125 whiskies, wide range of rums, gins, vodkas and ciders.
EVERY THURSDAY shakespeares pub Quiz.
Test your knowledge of shakespeare, sport, science and stuff from 9.00 free entry & drinks to be won
EVERY wEDnESDAY
reg & friends open acoustic night. Come along and play, sing or just watch. free entry
0114 275 59 59
www.shakespeares-sheffield.CO.uk shakespeares ale & Cider house, 146 – 148 Gibraltar street
Pow Wow Club/Go Go Gorilla. Rhythm and blues DJ night playing their classic and rare Rhythm & Blues collections from the 50’s and 60’s. Starts at 9:00pm
thurSday 15th
Troubled Salad improve comedy. Come down and enjoy some laughs. 7:00pm
Saturday 17th
Haze Christmas gig. Formed in 1978 by Chris and Paul McMahon, Haze were one of the founders of the neoprogressive revival of the early 1980s. 7.30pm -11pm, tickets £6 advanced £8 on the door
thurSday 22nd
The Red River Rebels gig. The Red River Rebels are a five piece band from Sheffield. The band play upbeat, dancing, jiving swing blues and R&B.
Saturday 31St
New Year’s Eve. There’s no event on. But we are a great place to ring in the New Year. Our wide ranging Whisky selection and great range of beers and ciders are a perfect accompaniment to the New Year’s festivities. We might even play some music.
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
Crystal Castles Leadmill Britain is leaving Europe; Donald Trump is President of the USA; Leicester City are Premier League Champions; and Bowie and Prince are no more. It’s safe to say 2016 hasn’t gone as expected. In making their own eyebrow-raising contribution to a year characterised by surprises, August release Amnesty (I) has resurrected the monstrous beast of Crystal Castles. It comes as a particular shock since singer Alice Glass announced the band were finished only two years ago. However, Iowa-born Edith Frances swiftly replaced Glass and put the show back on the road. Tonight’s stop at Sheffield’s beloved Leadmill wasn’t their first; they debuted here over eight years ago. Three albums later much has remained the same: Kath’s brand of arcade-game-electro-meetsindustrial-techno is still at psycho speed, and the trio’s frontwoman hurls herself across the stage while yelping into the mic as if her life depended on it. But whilst recent material slots into the set seamlessly, there’s a noticeable contrast between new and old. Classics like ‘Suffocation’. ‘Celestica’ and ‘Untrust Us’ are more measured and ambient in comparison to deafeningly abrasive latest cuts like ‘Concrete’ and ‘Enth’. The production is more intense, more gut-wrenching. The euphoric encore was a highlight, as haunting album opener ‘Femen’ supported fan-favourite ‘Not In Love’ – a sentiment relevant to the band, whose newfound focus on feminism and human rights probably inspired the more hot-blooded sound. As a rule of thumb, most bands evolve, mature their sound, polish their production and generally ease the tempo. But unlike their past peers, tonight proved that Crystal Castles are getting less commercial, further lo-fi and much weirder as they go on. Words: Jordan Foster Pic: Lewis Evans
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 85
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TOP PICKS
The Crookes Christmas Tour w/ Hot Soles
Queens Social Club // December 17 // £12.10 Our favourite dreamy pop peddlers have a huge festive bash lined up this month, and joining them will be rambunctious rock ‘n’ roll outfit Hot Soles. Tickets are sure to fly out, so get in there nice and early! www.harleylive.co.uk
James
O2 Academy // December 9 // £42 The popular Manchester indie band are touring what has been touted by many to be their best ever album, latest release Girl at the End of the World, not to mention another three decades’ worth of hits. www.academymusicgroup.com
High Hazels
Leadmill // December 17 // £6 Uplifting vocals and lilting melodies are the trademark of the familiar Handsworth four-piece, who have a spanking new EP ready for us in the New Year. Be the first to hear some of the new material when they return to The Leadmill this month. www.leadmill.co.uk
Primal Scream
Plug // December 10 // £26.50 Thirty-five years later and the party is still going strong for Primal Scream. With eleven albums in the bag, including this year’s critically acclaimed Chaosmosis, expect anthems and shit-tons of attitude from Bobby Gillespie and co. www.the-plug.com
Inheaven
Rocking Chair // December 16 // £6 Shoegaze and grunge blended through an accessible pop filter creates the sound that is South London’s Inheaven. A confident crash of carefully crafted noise, they are one of the most unique emerging talents playing today. www.facebook.com/therockingchairlive
Strummer Night
Mulberry Tavern // December 17 // Free entry How much would you pay to see seven of the finest live acts the city has to offer play fast and loose with the stylings of Joe Strummer? If you answered a tin of beans and a pair of socks*, you’re in luck! With a silent auction and raffle also taking place, there is a chance for you give and receive this Christmas at this charity night for local homelessness charity The Cathedral Archer Project. *Or any packet foods, hats, scarves, gloves or sleeping bags. www.facebook.com/mulberrytavern
Head to www.exposedmagazine.co.uk for the full list of live music events and things to do in Sheffield this month. 86 l For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
PHOTO: KEVIN WELLS
Bring Me The Horizon Sheffield Arena There is a discernible electricity about the atmosphere on Broughton Lane tonight. These coming-of-age shows only happen once, and it’s evident that every fan in attendance appreciates the magnitude of what they are about to witness. But despite this being a completely partisan crowd, it’s startling just how at home these once deathcore upstarts seem on the city’s biggest stage. By the time the band thunder through a skyscraping rendition of ‘Happy Song’, twelve-thousand people are on their feet to receive these unlikely Sheffield heroes. Sykes comes off as a sort of deranged cheerleader inciting arena-wide circle pits during ‘The House Of Wolves’ and ‘Shadow Moses’. There is a lull during the likes of ‘Follow You’ and ‘Doomed’, but more due to an overexerted audience using these gentler numbers as a chance to recuperate. Sure enough, just moments later, the entire floor bounces in unison to the soaring ‘Throne’ – a sight even Sykes can hardly believe, as he recalls the band’s early gigs at Casbah and Fez Club. Where Bring Me go from here is anyone’s guess. Words: Chris Lord
PHOTO: ISOBEL AITCHISON
Bugzy Malone Plug Bugzy Malone has been making waves in the grime scene for some time now – the fans flooding to Plug last month for his sold-out show were testament to this. He entered the stage sporting a t-shirt with his famous ‘Manny on the map’ slogan and has the crowd chanting ‘0161’ before he even picked up the mic. Just as he does with every city he visits, regardless of location, Bugzy Malone brings Manchester along to the party and the Sheffield crowd – as always – was well up for it. Due to his tendency to pick a battle or two, the volume of diss tracks, replies and battle raps that Bugzy brings, along with his repertoire of studio hits, filled up the hour quite easily. It’s impressive how he captivates the audience with a visible bravado, and how so many of the predominantly young crowd knew pretty much every one of his fast-firing lyrics. Support came from fellow grime MCs DAVE and Isaiah Dreads to warmup on what was a serious night for grime music in Sheffield, serving a strong reminder of how the scene is only going from strength to strength. Words: Tyrone Scott For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk l 87
KELHAM ISLAND BREWERY TAP HOUSE
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pete doherty hamburg demonstrations
Doherty’s second solo album is a cultured effort showcasing the flawed genius of the Libertines frontman. Recorded, as you might imagine, in Hamburg with Johann Scheerer [Faust/Bosnian Rainbows/ Gallon Drunk], it has a distinctly European flavour with tasteful smatterings of Spanish guitar and Italian standard strings throughout. Lead guitar, the calling card of his noisy outfits Libertines and Babyshambles, is frequently dispersed with in favour of aforementioned strings and piano, giving space for his town-crier croon to breathe between off-kilter instrumentation. The record’s single, ‘I Don’t Love Anyone (But You’re Not Just Anyone)’, quickly latches on with its nursery rhyme melody and, despite having two versions on the record, doesn’t wear thin. ‘Birdcage’ is a brilliant call and response: an internal monologue played out nicely with a vocals from fellow Londoner Suzie Martin. Doherty’s strength has always been as a poetic lyricist and ‘Hell To Pay At The Gates Of Heaven’ has him back to his terse, opinionated best, juxtaposing aspiring musicians and those aspiring to commit acts of terror: ‘Choose your weapons, J45 or AK-47’ he croons. Opening salvo, ‘Kolly Kibber’, has Pete singing ‘They broke the mould when they made you’. And with damning tabloid headlines hopefully behind him, Doherty’s unique talent again shines bright in a too often sterile field. 7.5/10 DC
PUMPIN’ ON MI STEREO Pumpin’ on mi stereo Deep Purple – Made in Japan (1972)
With a career spanning almost 50 years and more legendary musicians passing through than you could shake a Stratocaster at, it’s pretty unfair that the legacy of Deep Purple has been condensed into one single riff: “dun-dun-dun, dun-dun-dun-dun” (Yeah, I know you’re humming it). If you want to get a bit more of a flavour of what these guys are all about, give a listen to this live double-album. The LP opens with an atmospheric build of drums and keyboard, and before the audience have time to applaud, the band blasts a hole straight through your eardrums as it launches its way into one of the finest rock songs every made, ‘Highway Star’. It screams with the power that only a great live album can create, and every time Ian Gillan’s perfect banshee-like howl rips ‘Child In Time’ from gothic ballad to an intense rock ‘n’ roll energy like no other? Goosebumps, mate. TGF
Metallica Hardwired… To Self-Destruct
2016… Donald Trump is weeks away from moving into the White House, Her Majesty’s Government is the laughing stock of Europe and humanity in general has never felt more apathetic. ‘We’re so fucked, shit outta luck’, indeed. But fear not! After an excruciating eight-year wait, Californian heavy metal overlords Metallica return with their greatest album in over twenty years to save the fucking day. During its finest moments, Hardwired…To Self-Destruct is an absolute joy to behold; and fortunately, these moments are plentiful. It may transpire that James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich are at each other’s throats again, as the pair haven’t sounded this ferocious on record since Reagan was in office. Hardwired’s opening title track signals the band’s return with an exhibition of devastating thrash prowess, while ‘Moth Into Flame’ should be lauded alongside the likes of ‘Ride The Lighting’ and ‘One’. Crushing Hetfield chugs, bruising Ulrich grooves, and the trademark, wah-drenched Kirk Hammett guitar solo: Metallica truly sound like Metallica again. At seventy-seven minutes, the album does tend to self-indulge, as ‘ManUNkind’ and ‘Murder One’ both plod along without direction. But when these lapses are flanked by the wonderfully demented ‘Dream No More’, and the spectacular ‘Spit Out The Bone’, even the weariest, Lulu-affected fan will struggle to nitpick. It remains to be seen if ‘Tallica will continue into their sixties, but if Hardwired… really is their swansong, every fan on the planet can rejoice one last time. The kings are back. 9/10 CL
justice woman As far as Parisian electronic music goes, this feel-good third studio album by Justice is one to add to the recent wave of brilliantly produced French records. Since their last album, Audio, Video, Disco, the talented duo have spent the intervening years honing and improving their signature sound combos of 70s prog rock and funky disco-pop. After listening to the finished product, the pair again show their ingenuity in creating catchy, disco-infused rhythms manipulated by synthesizer and MIDI controller. In tracks such as ‘Alakazam!’ and ‘Safe and Sound’, the duo fill each one with engorging celestial synths, punchy rolling basslines and distorted vocals. Elsewhere, ‘Close Call’ uses ambient guitar licks and holistic percussion, taking their audience to a lullaby-like electronica land. Following on from the excellent reception of their two previous LPs, this French duo have started to live up their tag as an ‘era-defining’ outfit. 9/10 GS For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 89
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LOOK LOCAL
A QUICKIE WITH…
A quick word from the Sheffield band scene…
Dreamy pop outfit High Hazels have a new single, ‘Joined at the Lip’, out now on Heist or Hit. They’ve also been invited to support the Coral at the O2 Academy Leeds on the 8th December before coming home for a headline gig at The Leadmill on the 17th. www.highhazels.com // www.facebook. com/HighHazels // @HighHazels Polkadodge announced a much-welcomed comeback in the summer and have since spent a bit of time touring the country. Signing off the year on a high, they’ll be releasing track ‘All In My Head’ via Spotify and iTunes on December 16th. www.facebook.com/Polkadodge // www.soundcloud.com/polkadodge // @ Polkadodge
I SET THE SEA ON FIRE
Folk-inspired rock & roll outfit The Buffalo Skinners will also tread the boards at Yellow Arch next month, 8th December, alongside the brilliant Holy Moly & The Crackers and Miracle Glass Company. Head to www.yellowarch.com for ticket info. www.thebuffaloskinners.com // www. facebook.com/TheBuffaloSkinners // @ TheBuffaloSkinners One of the best value local gigs has to be alt-rock trio Southpaw at The Rocking Chair on January 6th. A £5 ticket gets you entry and a free download of two new singles ‘Medicine’ and ‘Monuments’. www.facebook.com/WeAreSouthpaw // www.soundcloud.com/wearesouthpaw // @ WeAreSouthpaw Speaking of value for money, a fiver gets you three cracking local bands in The Wired, Liberty Ship and Sheafs playing the Leadmill Main Room, 16th December. @_thewired // @LibertyShipBand // @ SHEAFSBand
Following the digital release of ‘Feeling The Strain’, Black Mamba Fever are working on a vinyl release with Rough Trade for January. They also have a gig at Yellow Arch Studios with Beat The Bandit on December 1st before ending the year with a string of out of town gigs. www.blackmambafever.com // www. facebook.com/blackmambafever // @ Blackmambafever
Another night for up-and-coming local talent at The Leadmill takes place on December 2nd, when The Seamonsters play alongside Bayonet and ex-Ratells frontman Ashley Holland. @TheSeamonsters // @BayonetOfficial // @ Ashleyhmusic I Set The Sea On Fire have released a video along alongside their new single, ‘Wrong Kind of People’. Head to their socials to check it out. www.istsof.com // www.facebook.com/ istsof // @istsof
Head to www.exposedmagazine.co.uk for the full list of live music events and things to do in Sheffield this month.
So, from playing Sheffield to touring South Korea. How was that? It was one of the best experiences we’ve had as a band, experiencing the live music scene in such a different culture. From a show in a cave-like venue with a 360-degree sound system to another in a beautiful concert hall, we played some of our best shows ever as a band. We saw acts from all over the world, fell in love with a Madagascan punk band called The Dizzy Brains and met some great musicians from the UK who travelled over there with us. How did the tour come about? We’ve got a massive thanks to say to Liverpool Sound City, who chose us as one of the five bands they were going to take to their stage at Zandari Festa, which is a massive festival in Seoul. You’ve just released some B-sides as a record called Forever Diabolical. Briefly tell Exposed readers why they should go out and buy it. These are tracks we’ve been saving as B-sides from our debut album, and we’ve put together two tracks we think contrast each other perfectly, as well as paying homage to the album. There’s ‘Wrong Kind Of People’, an energetic rockinfluenced track, which brings together some of the heaviest sounds from the album. The other is ‘Animals Don’t Go To Heaven’, a stripped back, more personal type of track. We really tried sum up the album in two tracks, and I think these songs really take that to heart. To purchase Forever Diabolical, head to www.istsof.com
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 91
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Fran Healy of Travis
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M The first record I ever bought… It was ‘Prince Charming’ by Adam and the Ants.
The first ever gig I went to…
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It was Owen Paul at The Pavilion Theatre in Glasgow because my friend won a raffle at the school. We were the only boys in attendance. It lit the fuse.
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The first song I ever performed…
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That would be ‘Under My Thumb’ by Rolling Stones.
One song I wish I wrote…
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‘Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow’ by Gerry Goffin and Carole King.
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One song I wish was never made…
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‘Let it Go...’
A song I can’t get out of my head at the minute… ‘Fire’ by Jimi Hendrix.
A record which reminds me of a specific time and place… Madonna’s ‘Crazy For You’. Crying myself to sleep because my love was not returned.
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Music allows me to…
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Travis are playing Sheffield O2 Academy on 20 December. Head to academymusicgroup. com for tickets and more info.
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Be of some use.
92 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
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Sheffield City Hall Live Music | Comedy | Entertainment
December 2016 – January 2017 Thu 1st December | 7.30pm
Thu 15th December | 1.30pm & 7.00pm
Jools Holland and His Rhythm and Blues Orchestra
The Snowman
Fri 2nd December | 7.30pm
The Bootleg Beatles
The Sensational 60s Experience: The Tour That Never Ends Sat 3rd December & Mon 12th December | SOLD OUT
Michael Ball & Alfie Boe: ‘Together’ Mon 5th December | SOLD OUT
Richard Hawley Tue 6th December | 2.30pm
Christmas Memories Tue 6th December | 7.30pm
Kate Rusby at Christmas Thu 8th December | 7.30pm
Dr. Hook Starring Dennis Locorriere Fri 9th December | 7.30pm
Christmas with The Overtones Sat 10th December | 3.00pm & 7.00pm
City Hall Christmas Concert: Black Dyke Band & Sheffield Philharmonic Chorus Sat 10th December | 7.30pm
The Burly Q Burlesque and Cabaret Winter Ball 2016 Sun 11th December | 3.00pm & 7.00pm
Fri 16th December | 7.30pm
Sat 17th December | 8.00pm
John Reilly and Boy on a Dolphin plus Special Guests Tue 27th December – Tue 8th January | 2.00pm & 6.15pm
Jack and the Beanstalk Captioned Performance: Fri 6th January | 7.15pm Sat 31st December | 1.30pm
Dancing in the Ballroom: The New Year’s Ball Sat 14th January | 7.30pm
Whitney – Queen of the Night Thu 19th January | 7.00pm
Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra Sat 21st January | 7.30pm
Roy ‘Chubby’ Brown Wed 25th January | 7.30pm
Tommy Emmanuel ‘It’s Never Too Late’ Tour Every Wednesday | 12.30pm
Lunchtime Choir
Christmas Celebration
Every Friday & Saturday Doors 7.00pm | Show 8.15pm
Tue 13th December | SOLD OUT
Last Laugh Comedy Cabaret
25 Years of Reeves & Mortimer: The Poignant Moments
sheffieldcityhall.co.uk Box Office: 0114 2 789 789
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
The big question Ok: pop quiz. What’s the last music you bought? Was it a re-release of a favourite track, or a new tune you’d heard on the radio? Maybe an act you stumbled across on a YouTube trawl, or perhaps it was someone you recently caught at a gig? Whoever and whatever, there’s something that triggers us to buy new music and I’m fascinated to know what that is. There was a time when I knew just what to buy. I’d perhaps read about it in the NME, or hear it on John Peel’s evening Radio 1 show. But these days the path to our musical heart is a convoluted one, and I’d bet somewhere along the line the internet plays a part. Online we are led by some invisible algorithmic genie towards a veritable jukebox of associated music on pretty much all internet platforms – YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, SoundCloud etc. And whilst we may be searching for something specific, before long we’ll be treated to an assortment of digitally assembled material that may have nothing in common with our tastes, but connected to our search by a common song title or guest artist. And as spurious as the resulting offerings may be, there’s something in those algorithms that interest me. They are the best attempts that some pretty smart people have come up with to find music that we like using our own tastes as indicators. But is it as easy as that? Sometimes I’ve been transfixed by a song because of a single thing that happens in the last five seconds on the fade-out. Sometimes it was the way the singer pronounced “rain” or it might be the
indefinably great sound of the drums. Maybe there were lyrics that resonated with my view of the world and how people behave to each other in it. More often than not, though, it’s the musical genre or the energy and emotion contained within the music. But I can’t help wondering, from the point of view of a music maker, what can be learned from all this. There are, and I’m taking a stab in the dark here, perhaps hundreds of thousands of artists releasing a constant stream of new music that just doesn’t quite manage to pierce the collective consciousness. Bands that, despite being of good merchantable quality, with proper songs and reasonable production, never seem to reach us on the kind of level required for us to buy their music. It’s got to be nigh-on impossible to explain why it all doesn’t quite manage to reach our musical hearts and provoke us to ‘buy now’. Maybe if I could make such an algorithm, then every band and act could run their music through it, like a spell checker, and find out exactly why they aren’t yet a worldwide, platinum-selling act. But alas, there would be just as much margin for erroneous results as there is when YouTube plays you a cover of Kanye West by some primary schoolkids when you actually searched for old school hip-hop. I guess we’ll have to admit that, for now, the elusive truth of exactly how and why music succeeds or fails to appeal to us is unfathomable – not just for computers but humans too. And on balance I’m pretty sure we can all agree it’s probably best left like that.
www.mustudios.co.uk // @MuStudiosSheff on twitter // Facebook/talentatmustudios 94 | For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
Exposed meets iconic Sheffield outfit Boy on a Dolphin ahead of their now customary Christmas bash. Words: Dan Collins Sitting with a cuppa in Exposed HQ, John Reilly is explaining why his band, Boy on a Dolphin, ended up beached across the pond in the United States and Canada. “Things were going absolutely brilliant for us, we were on MTV, managed by Bryan Adams’ manager, but just as we were at the height, there was a big coup at Atlantic Records and we lost support. That was a bad time, so we came back to UK after being away and thankfully the fan base here – especially in Sheffield – were dying to see us again.” Two decades have now passed since the deepest valley of his career, but it didn’t dishearten him. Instead, he plugs away for his dedicated Yorkshire audience, whilst royalty cheques from far reaching places he’s never visited like China, Isreal and South Africa still come in. Buskers and radio DJs in Canada still play his songs. And the Canadian connection has proved important to his career as a solo star. In Vancouver, he met Lewis Nitikman, a keys player who became his song-writing partner fifteen years ago. in Exposed HQ on a miserable mid-week morning in leather jackets, Reilly sees Nitikman as the perfect “old school” partner who sunglasses and shiny jewellery – but are they your usual breed of egodoes what he can’t and Nitikman understands exactly what heavy songwriters? that means: “John is the artist – I start it off with an idea, John “We always get nervous when we have a new song and we’re pushing takes it, gives it melody, lyrics, and we tweak it together.” it!” Nitikman exclaims. “You gotta have a thick skin and I haven’t got it! Nitikman’s contribution was vital to Reilly’s latest single, I take the criticism very personally,” adds Reilly whilst miming himself ‘Peace Sign’, as the songwriter described the overwhelming reacting to criticism by wilting like a flower. feeling that struck him as soon as he heard Nitikman play the Ir’s a humble response, but that should be no surprise. He’s raised tens intro: of thousands of pounds for the ‘Women of Steel’ statue project with “Immediately, I felt this is a Christmas song. In the news, a concert and written a song for the cause too. And now, Reilly will terrible things are happening and I just thought it’s time to do be going back to where it all began for him by performing his annual something to draw people with a theme of peace. I didn’t want Christmas concert at the Irwin Mitchell Hall with Boy on a Dolphin, to write a frivolous Christmas song. And we’re asking as many especially for fans of his old band. people as possible to send pictures in of them doing the peace “It is gonna be the biggest Christmas party in Sheffield this year, without sign and as the video comes out, we’ll be adding every one we a doubt. And in the last hour of the concert, everyone in the hall is gonna get into it.” be on their feet dancing; it happens every year and this year will be no So big opinions, big ideas and big clothes – the two are sat different!”
Catch John Reilly and Boy on a Dolphin plus special guests, including Lewis Nitikman, Saturday 17th December at Sheffield City Hall. Tickets available at www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk. For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 97
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So, the season of goodwill and festive cheer is upon us again! You better have the tinsel and mistletoe at the ready, as we have another packed month of events to get stuck into. For me, there are only two types of people in the world: those who love sprouts and those who are wrong about sprouts. But whichever camp you fall in, why not start early (December 2nd) and pull a cracker at the Christmas dinner with Hallam’s LGBT+ Liberation Group at Hallam View. It’s open to all members of the community and allies, not just students. Following dinner, there’s a trip to the pub on offer as Pride Sheffield hold their first fundraiser for 2017, ‘They Live!’, at the Cremorne featuring cabaret performances, party tunes and festive surprises. To end the semester, Hallam’s trans social is back on 7th December with a screening of the highly-acclaimed ‘Boy Meets Girl’, a sweet and slightly soppy film with an actual trans woman playing a trans woman (shock, horror!). Since it’s the season of goodwill, you could help raise funds for Diversity Fest at the Royal Standard on 10th December – featuring a fantastic line-up including Petit Pierre, Madge Woollard, Lio, Vinna Bee, InaVibe and the Globologist. Elsewhere, bringing the glitter and sparkle as they do throughout the year, Girl Gang have an array of festive delights in store, starting with their Jingle Belles night at The Great Gatsby on Saturday 3rd December. Expect
the usual Girl Gang antics with party poppers, Xmas hats, cocktails, and their favourite festive tunes. They are about the next day, Sunday 4th, with their first Girl Gang Christmas market at the Moor Deli Theatre. Fill stockings with gifts from Sheff’s finest independents, take part in the festive crafts workshops and grab at the festive photobooth. And don’t forget to visit their Santa’s grotto with a difference: see Santa and you give the gifts to be passed on to local charities. Finally, get ready to dust off your sequins, ruffle up your feather boa and shine your shoes for Sheffield’s glitziest end of year celebration – the NYE Glitterati Party. Expect OTT decor, piñatas, cocktails, glitter cannons, way too many balloons, and the very best in female-fronted tunes! In keeping with the theme, there will be prizes for the most innovative, creative
and glittery babes. If that’s not enough glitter for you (and let’s face it, there’s no such thing as too much glitter), then the infamous Climax Glitterball returns on 16th December, a winter wonderland to see off 2016 and herald in the new year – Christmassy giveaways, festive tunes and, of course, real fake snow! And last but by no means least, it wouldn’t be Christmas without some carol singing so check out Sheffield’s own LGBT community choir performing at Sheffield Train Station on 15th December and Weston Park Museum on Saturday 17th. Phew! That’s your lot for this month. I’m off to pour myself a mulled wine and write my letter to Santa with annual lies about how good I’ve been this year… Have a good one, and until next year, love and tinsel to all!
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Games Santa Needs To Bring You This Year (If You’ve Been Good...)
BY KIERAN WADE
Final Fantasy XV (ps4/XBoX one) - Release DaTe: 29/11 As a huge fan of the series, I consider this a great comeback for Final Fantasy. XIII wasn’t all that great, XIV is okay, but I dunno, the franchise has been all over the place recently. The world of XV looks to be one of the most interesting – this, along with what looks to be an incredible story and a new battle system (known as Active X Battle), is definitely a must-buy.
Super Mario Maker (3Ds) - Release DaTe: 02/12 Super Mario Maker is a fantastic game because it is on the Wii U – the ability to play a ridiculous amount of user-created levels is a dream come true. Now, imagine being able to do that anywhere you want – on the train, on the plane, or in the comfort of your own bed. Nintendo, I do love you (sometimes).
Dead Rising 4 (pC/XBoX one) - Release DaTe: 06/12 Let’s be honest, Dead Rising has always been a ridiculous experience (in the best way possible). Everyone’s favourite photojournalist, Frank West, makes his return – this time, the Christmas season is upon us, and you guessed it; another zombie outbreak has taken place. The game won’t feature a timer system, which I personally welcome with open arms.
The Last Guardian (ps4) - Release DaTe: 09/12 Featuring gameplay and a narrative that screams ICO and Shadow of the Collossus, The Last Guardian is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated games of late. You’ll essentially be playing a series of flashbacks from the perspective of an elderly man as he recounts his experience as a young boy with Trico, a huge feathered griffin-like creature. It’s gonna be epic.
Other releases: Killing Floor 2 (18/11) Darksiders: Warmastered Edition (22/11)
SHOWROOM
CINEMA
WHAT’S ON IN DECEMBER
FROM FRIDAY 2 DECEMBER BLEED FOR THIS (15) CHI-RAQ (15) I, OLGA (18) THE UNKNOWN GIRL
FROM FRIDAY 16 DECEMBER THE BLACK HEN (12A) MOANA (PG) LIFE, ANIMATED (PG)
FROM FRIDAY 9 DECEMBER THE BIRTH OF A NATION (15) THE PASS (15) SNOWDEN (15) IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (U)
FROM WED 22 DECEMBER PASSENGERS
FROM THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY (12A) FROM FRIDAY 16 DECEMBER THE EAGLE HUNTRESS (U) THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL (U)
FROM MONDAY 19 DECEMBER BALLERINA (U)
FROM BOXING DAY IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT (15) I, DANIEL BLAKE (15) A UNITED KINGDOM (12A) GIMME DANGER (15) EAT THAT QUESTION: FRANK ZAPPA IN HIS OWN WORDS (15) BEST OF 2015
SPECIAL SCREENINGS ONE MORE TIME WITH FEELING MY FERAL HEART DEAD MAN’S SHOES NAPOLEON THE COMING WAR ON CHINA + Q&A THIRD ANGEL PRESENTS: THE SMALL CELEBRATIONS AND OTHER FILMS TRIP ALONG EXODUS + Q&A SOUR GRAPES + Q&A THE INCIDENT + Q&A GLOBAL GAY FILMS BRITROCK FILM TOUR GET BETTER: A FILM ABOUT FRANK TURNER NORFOLK THE LOOK OF SILENCE MENTAL COMEDY
SEE WEBSITE FOR SCREENING DATES AND TIMES.
Showroom Cinema 15 Paternoster Row, Sheffield, S1 2BX Box Office (0114) 2757727 FOR FULL DETAILS OF SCREENING TIMES VISIT: SHOWROOMWORKSTATION.ORG.UK/GUIDE FOLLOW US ON TWITTER AND FACEBOOK @SHOWROOMCINEMA
INDIAN & PAKISTANI CUISINE
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For Christmas & New Year Christmas Party bookings now being taken
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FANTASTIC BEASTS AND WHERE TO FIND THEM (12A) J.K. Rowling’s wizarding universe expands with this, set 70 years before the events of Harry Potter and centring around young Newt Scamander, a collector and protector of rare magic animals. When some of Newt’s beasts escape and begin to cause havoc in New York, he enlists the help of a No-Maj (American for Muggle) called Jacob to return them before the magical world and human world collide. The intention to create a new series of films is painfully obvious here, with much backstory and character building meaning that it feels more like an intro than a fully-fledged film (admittedly an increasingly common problem with “world-building” franchises). Young fans of the Potterverse will be enthralled by the array of beasts on display – though a more cynical mind could say that the CG is surprisingly shaky in many instances. The problem lies more with the fact that while this is a continuation of Harry’s world, the distinct Britishness and sense of childlike discovery that made the franchise so affecting are missing. Instead, it’s a more grown-up, world-wise, and yes, darker affair, which has it’s magic moments, but is too much a slave to what is to come. AB 3/5
THE DEFECTOR:
Sitting on his suitcase, hood up and head down, a solitary man cuts an intense figure. A car pulls up, another man steps out; dressed sharply with an ear-piece attached; he nervously stands watching, whilst listening to various voices over the radio. “It’s now or never,” he declares. This is the first 75 seconds of Defector, a ‘kung fu thriller’ short directed by up-andcoming talent James D Chanter, produced by Josh Grayson and starring Lee McGeough. The latter is a professional Fight Choreographer and Classical Kung Fu Martial Artist with over 30 years experience and it is he who plays the titular Defector, a mysterious character on the run. At just under 14 minutes long, the opening plays out like an integral sequence mid-way through a Hollywood action thriller. McGeough embarks on a relentless, high-octane journey as he battles masked assailants coming at him from all angles. Constantly on the move, the action never lets up until the final second: a classic showdown featuring McGeough’s only line of the film, which in itself hints at the story being far from over. It is seriously impressive work from Chanter and McGeough – who manage to make us root for the protagonist despite not knowing a thing about him. Chanter’s work behind the camera is hugely accomplished; every shot is purposeful and deliberate. For a feature produced with little money, it is simply outstanding. JM 5/5
ARRIVAL (15)
If Arrival wasn’t out this month, this would certainly be top of my Best of 2016 list! As it is, I get to tell you exactly why it should be top of your list too. Charting the arrival of alien ships and mankind’s attempts to communicate with them, Arrival is a smart and emotionally-resonant piece of filmmaking from the increasingly brilliant Denis Villeneuve (director of last year’s exceptional Sicario). Forsaking the traditional bombastic shoot-em-ups of standard alien pics, and opting for something far more cerebral instead, the film nevertheless glides along with urgency and palpable tension – you won’t believe how gripping the translation process can be. Asking big questions of the nature and power of humanity, language and time, it somehow never gets bogged down in pseudo-philosophy, and even has the rarest of treasures for this kind of film (something which even Nolan’s Interstellar never quite managed) – a dramatically and emotionally satisfying crescendo. AB 5/5 For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 103
JO TOP HN’S 3
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THE REVENANT
A gorgeously shot, intense revenge drama that depicts the unflinching brutality of both man and nature. Leonardo DiCaprio goes above and beyond the call of duty to deliver an exhaustingly physical and emotional performance as a frontiersman who is left for dead. We follow him as he battles his injuries and the elements, determined to exact his revenge, on a journey which is depicted against the most breath-taking scenery. Director Alejandro G. Inarritu’s skilful direction and cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki’s stunning photography combine to make this a modern masterpiece and without doubt one of the greatest cinematic accomplishments of recent years.
HELL OR HIGH WATER
Chris Pine and Ben Foster star as bank robbing brothers in this superbly tense, taut and brooding modern Western from David Mackenzie. Despite a straightforward premise, Mackenzie offers us something hugely substantial. A homage to the genre of Western movies but also to Texas itself, this is a study of how the global recession continues to affect people and Mackenzie superbly merges the old with the new here, combining a story founded on the 21st century economic crisis, yet is set in what is ultimately a 19th century backdrop. Hell Or High Water is so steadily paced yet creates a significant amount of tension and Mackenzie touches upon themes which set this way above a typically generic Western or crime drama. He draws incredible performances from his leads and provides his audience with stunning, sumptuous visuals and gorgeous photography which show Texas in its expansive and desolate glory.
ROOM
A story so sublimely told and exquisitely crafted, and with performances so achingly beautiful and emotive, it would be near impossible not to pull on the tightest of heart strings. Every frame is a deliberate exploration into the themes of maternity, creation and endless opportunity; uplifting messages founded on a dark premise. The consistency of Lenny Abrahamson’s masterful direction and the stunning performances make this an utterly overwhelming experience. Abrahamson utilises an incredible score at key moments, which builds to an intense crescendo and manages to crawl under the skin and hold you transfixed on the scene. It’s tough, nail-biting, intense and immersive, but it is genuine and heart-felt, uplifting and inspiring. This is a film that requires repeated viewings as the sheer subtleties within every scene and on every facial expression demand close attention in order to appreciate the pure brilliance that is Room. 104 |l For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk
A TOP LI’S 3
EXPOSED FILM WRITERS JOHN MORGAN AND ALI BIANCHI TELL US ABOUT THEIR TOP PICKS OF THE YEAR.
THE BIG SHORT
Undoubtedly the most clever and timely film of the year, the story of the guys who predicted the financial collapse of the mid2000s will have you crying out in laughter and horror. Director Adam McKay uses every tool at his disposal, from fourth wall breaking to Margot Robbie in a bathtub, to get his point across: the banks are crooks! The simmering outrage, wit and energy that drives the story are palpable, marked by outstanding performances from all involved. It is comedy at its best – you are laughing, but there is absolutely nothing funny about what went on here.
BFG
Perhaps not widely recognised as one of the year’s best, and it may be that my own childhood nostalgia is framing my opinion, but the BFG is something wonderful. Restricted by a threadbare story, director Spielberg instead chooses to revel in the wonder of the dreamworld, seen through the young eyes of Sophie and held together by Mark Rylance’s brilliant turn as the titular giant. The final act, where the BFG eats a giant breakfast with the queen and her farting corgis, is so gleefully and charmingly put together, it has to win scene of the year for me.
CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR
2016 has been a turgid year for blockbusters, ranging from mediocre to downright diabolical. However, in Marvel we trust. Learning lessons from the criticisms of their previous output – namely the overblown finales and two-dimensional bad guys – the Russo brothers have constructed a film which is intimate and devastating in its conclusion, where the main enemies of our heroes are themselves. It also manages two key superhero origin stories – Spiderman and Black Panther – with as much impact as if they had been given a whole film of their own. It also has the best fight scene of any superhero film of the last decade. For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 105
TOP PICKS
The Great Gatsby
Moor Theatre Delicatessen // December 1-31 // £20 Step into a night like no other and find yourself back in the roaring ‘20s, an era full of swinging jazz and bootleg liquor, all to celebrate this immersive viewing of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. Prepare yourself for an exceptional theatrical experience and soak up the atmosphere at one of Jay Gatsby’s famous parties as you follow the story around the venue. Dancing shoes are required, and 1920s dress is most encouraged. www.theatredelicatessen.co.uk
Stan Sulzmann & Nikki Lles Duo
Studio Theatre // December 2 // £16 Iconic UK jazz duo Stan Sulzmann and Nikki Lles will be showcasing their most recent collaboration, Stardust. With Stan on saxophone and Nikki on piano, the long-standing musical friendship are a must-see for any jazz aficionado. www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk
The Velvet Burlesque presents Cupid Stunts at Christmas
Sheffield Library Theatre // December 17 // £25 Glamour and extravagance does not go amiss at this year’s big show. Expect plenty of burlesque, vaudeville, cabaret, circus and variety acts, all featuring award-winning performers including lovable rogue Desmond O’Connor, rising burlesque star Didi Derriere and juggler extraordinaire Ian Marchant. www.velvetburlesque.co.uk
Annie Get Your Gun
Crucible Theatre // December 9 – January 21 // From £20 The showing of this whip-cracking has now been extended due to popular demand. Famed for being one of the wildest Wild West musicals from lyricist Irving Berlin, expect to hear all-time favourites ‘There’s No Business Like Show Business’ and ‘Anything You Can Do’, as well as breath-taking choreography from Sheffield star Alistair David. www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk
The Wipers Times Sheffield Lyceum
Penned by Ian Hislop and longstanding writing partner Nick Newman, The Wipers Times is a touching and often hilarious true story of how humour can play a role in even the most tragic of circumstances. In early 1916 a group of 12th Battalion Sherwood Foresters are patrolling the war-torn ruins of Ypres when they happen upon an old printing press. Sergeant Harris, previously a printer on Fleet Street, declares the machine still in working order and gives Captain Roberts the wonderful idea of producing a satirical war newspaper to entertain the battle-weary troops. Despite the lack of editorial experience amongst the team headed by Roberts and his sub-editor Lieutenant Pearson, the quirky ads, parodies and poetry quickly become a huge hit with the troops and a thorn in the sides of some disapproving members of top brass. As the play moves on, it becomes apparent how much the publication means to the soldiers; they write gags while under bombardment, pen poems as they guard cold, rat-infested trenches and laugh together at spoofs parodying the dangers of daily life on the battlefield. Laughs are aplenty but it certainly doesn’t seek to gloss over the hardships of war, and some scenes make for particularly poignant viewing, but it brilliantly shows how these men resolutely held onto their humour and spirit in the face of unimaginable peril. Words: Joe Food
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Panto season is just around the corner and this year sees the all-time classic Snow White and The Seven Dwarves head to Sheffield’s Lyceum Theatre. We spoke to cast members Wendi Peters (Wicked Queen), Phil Gallagher (Muddles), Dean Whatton (Groover), Graham Hughes (Grumbly) and Craig Garner (Cheeky) to see what they had in store for us. What is the appeal of doing panto? Wendi: The thing I really love is when the kids come to see it and you can see their little faces loving every minute of it. It’s really important because it’s often the first time a lot of children in this country experience live theatre, and we need to ensure they are enthralled because they are our future audiences. Phil: It’s tradition for me; Christmas wouldn’t be the same without panto. I used to love going to panto as a kid and to now be performing in them is amazing. Craig: Yeah, I’d have to agree with Wendi, passing theatre on to the next generation is really important. The audience always seem to have so much fun, but is it as fun for you guys on stage? Graham: Yeah, because you’re never quite sure what to expect. You’ve got to remember that in our scenes we are really lucky because we’ve got seven professional actors on stage, so if anything does go wrong (which it will – on a regular basis) it can be picked up, and we can play around with the lines and get away with it more than the others can. Wendi: I can tell you a funny story from when I did Snow White here at The Crucible. It was the finale and we did a tap number in white tutus – and for some reason the costumes were given to us late so we hadn’t had chance to really practice in them. Obviously, mine didn’t fit properly. So, as I tap danced down the stairs at the end, my top started to get lower and lower and guess what, out one popped! [laughs]. I was embarrassed, but quite popular at the after party! Without giving any surprises away, what can we expect this year? Phil: Well, I’ve been working on my pun wars against Damian [Williams, the panto dame], so expect lots of laughs. Dean: The dwarfs have a lot to offer this year including tap dancing, solo songs, backflips and a lot of sneezing. Wendi: The Wicked Queen is doubly wicked and always really extravagant so lots of eyelashes, purple eyeshadow and backcombed hair. You’ll have to come along to see the rest! Shows run from December 9th until January 8th, at the Lyceum. Tickets are available to buy from www. sheffieldtheatres.co.uk. Head to www.exposedmagazine.co.uk for the full list of events and things to do in Sheffield this month.
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The year is coming to an end and as always, the mighty Manor Operatic Society are ready to go out with a bang.
Let’s Get Quizzical This Christmas, Jack climbs the beanstalk past the giant’s castle and into 2017 with a spectacular new pantomime. Nageena Rehman sat down with stars James Smith and Robert Spink to chat about the upcoming production, and have a little pantomime-themed fun. Hi guys, how are you? Are the rehearsals going well? RS: We’re nearly halfway through setting up all the song and dance numbers. We’ve practically finished Act One and now starting on Act Two. Great, not long to go then. So, why JATB? RS: Well, we’ve done all the really well-known pantomimes. We thought now it’s time to do Jack and the Beanstalk, again, after doing Peter Pan and a new one last year [Barnum]. JATB is always a good seller in pantomimes. What are your parts in the show? JS: I play Jack. RS: I play the Dame! How are you both finding your roles? RS: Well, this is the eighth time I’ve played the Dame so I’m very used to doing it now, but I always like the reaction from the audience. JATB has been adapted many times; what makes your show different? Is there a twist in the tale? JS: There is but I don’t think we’re allowed to say! RS: But we have got a 25 foot
giant! [Points to the 12 foot pair of legs behind us] It does vary a little but the principle moments are still there, you know with the cow getting sold and the magic beans and obviously, the giant. Of course. Have there been any fun moments whilst rehearsing? RS: Not yet but there will be! Stuff normally happens when the show’s on. Things tend to go wrong! Go on then, share a few mishaps. RS: Oh, we’ve had everything! We had a thing in Aladdin; James was Wishy-Washy, Emma Holmes was Aladdin and she had to come out and do this big scene with the lamp… and she forgot to bring it on-stage. It broke the audience and ruined it and then someone chucked it on for her. JS: Just trying to rub the magic lamp and there’s nothing there! Stuff like that in rehearsals is fine but on-stage… RS: I’ve had me knickers come down. Oh no! Hopefully, you had something underneath? RS: Yes! [Laughter] Good for the audience! Moving swiftly on… I’m going to test your panto knowledge. Which famous actor starred as the Widow Twankey in Aladdin in 2004? RS: Christopher Biggins?
JS: Paul O’Grady? RS: Ian McKellan! Got it! What era does the tradition of joining in with the actors come from? RS: Victorian. Nicely done. Now, for some true or false questions, panto-style! The most recent film adaptation of JATB is Jack the Giant Slayer (2013). RS: Oh, yes it is. JS: Oh, no it isn’t? Correct, James. JS: YES! It’s Into the Woods (2014). The first ever pantomime was performed by the Romans. RS and JS: Oh, no it wasn’t. Oh, yes it was! An animal impersonation in a pantomime is called an ‘animalis partem.’ RS: Oh, no it’s not. Correct! It’s called a ‘Skin Part.’ Next, can you finish off these classic panto jokes? What did Cinderella say when the photographer mislaid her pictures? RS: I know this… One day my prints will come? Yes! I went out last night and got 14 pints of yoghurt and I got totally…? JS: Mullered! Well done, clawing it back. My husband disappeared into a huge vat of coffee; it was terrible
but at least it was…? RS and JS: [silence] Instant! RS: They’re terrible, these panto jokes! I had one last year it was ‘Do you want to know how I lost my husband? He fell down a wishing well. I didn’t know they worked!’ So bad it’s good. Eggs are going up again, that’ll surprise a few…? RS and JS: Chickens! We had that in Cinderella. How did Jack know how many beans his cow was worth? RS: He used his fingers? He used a cow-culator! JS: Wow. That’s scraping the bottom of the barrel, that one. I’m surprised we don’t use that, we should put it in the final show! Finally, why was Cinderella so bad at football? JS: She lost her slipper? RS: She couldn’t get to the ball? Nope! It’s something to do with how she’s getting there. JS: Oh! Pumpkin carriage? Nearly! JS: She didn’t have a good coach? Because it was a… JS: A pumpkin! Finally! RS: You’ve just cheated! JS: What! Now, now. It was a close call but Bob is the winner! JS: Come on!
Jack and the Beanstalk will be on at Sheffield City Hall from December 27-January 8. Tickets available from www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk.
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To book contact Manor Operatic Box Office on 01709 365108 or City Hall Box Office on 0114 2789789 www.manoroperatic.com www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk
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THE BEST OF EXPOSED ONLINE
There’s a whole bunch of other stuff we simply couldn’t fit in the mag due to the finite nature of physical resources. So hooray for the internet! Go to www.exposedmagazine.co.uk for more articles, interviews, blogs and goodies. OUR TOP PICKS
YOKO, OH NO!
If you’ve got a spare couple of mins and sturdy eardrums, it’s worth checking out Yoko Ono’s unique cover of Katy Perry’s Firework. Better than the original some say. www.tinyurl.com/a9wsla5
JACK OF ALL TRADES
After winning the Brits Critics’ Choice Award, BBC Sound of 2016 poll and releasing his acclaimed debut album Phase, multi-instrumentation don Jack Garratt could not have asked for a better year. Exposed grabbed him for a chat about his recent success, touring life and beard advice. www.tinyurl.com/jbata93
PUSHING UP DAISIES
“Honestly, if this thing goes platinum, I will literally go outside, sit in an intersection and suck my own dick!” John Corabi, former Mötley Crüe member and current lead singer of supergroup The Dead Daisies, talks to Chris Lord about the band’s new album and his rock ‘n’ roll past. www.tinyurl.com/gv27wcn
TAKING THE BISCUIT
THE DUKE IS BACK, BABY.
Our gaming blogger celebrates one of the most popular shooters to grace our consoles by playing Duke Nukem 3D, the reboot celebrating the franchise’s 20th year anniversary. www.tinyurl.com/ju26ozo
A Sheffield man dunked a biscuit in tea from a high of 240m last month. Why? We don’t know. Is watching the record-setting feat worth your time? Probably not. www.tinyurl.com/z4ocmkn
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COCO POPS
Catch the vid for the latest track from the rising Sheffield MC, a laid-back R&B tune featuring garage queen Shola Ama and local rapper Deep Green. www.tinyurl.com/h7kaez5
For more listings and reviews, head to exposedmagazine.co.uk | 111
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